Harvard Faces Backlash:
Palestinian Professor Dalal Saeb Iriqat’s Scheduled Appearance Sparks Outrage
Harvard’s decision to host Dalal Saeb Iriqat, an Associate Professor at the Arab American University, has stirred controversy as she previously downplayed Hamas’ October 7 attack, terming it a “normal human struggle” and placing blame on Israel.
Iriqat is slated to speak at Harvard’s Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs on March 7 as part of the Middle East Dialogues series.
Iriqat’s Unsettling Stance: Hamas Attack Described as “Normal Human Struggle”
In the aftermath of the Hamas terror attacks on October 7, Iriqat faced criticism for her online statements, asserting that the resulting 1,200 deaths and numerous abductions were merely a “normal human struggle for freedom.”
Despite public backlash, she continued her controversial stance, accusing Israel of forcing Palestinians to take their children and elderly as hostages.
Harvard’s Attempt at Dialogue: Middle East Dialogues Series Amidst Campus Tensions
The university’s decision to include Iriqat in the Middle East Dialogues series, aimed at fostering understanding and exposing participants to diverse perspectives on achieving peace, comes at a time when Harvard is grappling with allegations of not adequately addressing anti-Semitism on its campus since October 7.
Former president Claudine Gay’s departure amid accusations of mishandling anti-Semitism concerns has further strained the university’s reputation.
Graphic Comparisons and Conspiracy Theories: Iriqat’s Online Posts Raise Eyebrows
Dalal Saeb Iriqat’s online presence has also featured graphic cartoons likening Israel to Nazis and conspiracy theories, including claims that Israel misrepresented the events of October 7.
Her controversial views have intensified the debate surrounding Harvard’s commitment to facilitating open dialogue on contentious issues.
Harvard’s Response: Navigating Criticism Amidst Ongoing Tensions
As Harvard faces criticism for its handling of anti-Semitism on campus, the university maintains its commitment to open inquiry and honest conversation.
The Middle East Dialogues series includes a diverse lineup of speakers, including controversial figures such as Iriqat, former Trump advisor Jared Kushner, former Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, former Israeli Knesset member Einat Wilf, and foreign policy advisor to Bernie Sanders, Matt Duss.
Tensions Escalate: Lawsuit and Retaliatory Strikes Add to Campus Challenges
In the aftermath of the October 7 attack, tensions have escalated, with around 25,000 Palestinians reported killed in retaliatory strikes by Israel.
Harvard’s response to these challenges is under scrutiny, with ongoing lawsuits and accusations that the university enabled anti-Semitism, raising questions about the campus climate and commitment to fostering constructive dialogue.*
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