The White House and former President Donald Trump, among other politicians, released statements on Wednesday responding to University President Minouche Shafik’s decision to authorize a New York Police Department sweep of Hamilton Hall and the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment.”

Over a week after Columbia’s “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” began on April 17, universities across the country—and world—have pitched their own tents in support of the movement at Columbia and in solidarity with Gaza and the Palestinian people.

As the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” enters its second week and more encampments spring up across the country, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) visited the encampment and pro-Israel protesters held a “United for Israel March,” where many individuals reported hate speech and harassment. An email from the Office of the President assured that the New York Police Department would not be sweeping the encampment on Thursday night.

After the University announced on Wednesday a 48-hour continuation of negotiations between representatives of the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” and the administration, the encampment continued into its eighth day. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican representatives held a press conference on Low Steps on Wednesday, calling for University President Minouche Shafik’s resignation.

Tuesday’s near one-week mark of the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” began with screen printing, art installations, and prolific speakers. However, it took a drastic turn when Shafik declared a midnight deadline until “alternative options for clearing the West Lawn” would be taken into consideration. Experience pivotal moments of the day through the lens of Spectator photographers.