Protestors could be heard chanting “Bring them home!” referring to the 133 hostages still held in captivity by Hamas in Gaza — most of whom were captured on Oct. 7 when the war began.

Hundreds of pro-Israel protestors marched up Amsterdam Avenue to the entrance of Columbia, waving flags, holding signs and facing pro-Palestinian protestors. At least two people were arrested.

Some demonstrators were Columbia students and others were allies, but many said they wanted to show their support for Jewish students who feel unsafe.

“The administration didn’t do anything. And now they’re negotiating with them and there’s suspensions. The Jews have been totally ignored,” Jonathan Laderer, a sophomore at Columbia, said.

Meanwhile, dozens of tents remain on Columbia’s campus as pro-Palestinian protests continue.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik said the encampment disrupts campus life and creates a hostile environment for some. But protesters are calling on the school to divest from companies they say are profiting from the war in Israel and Gaza. Until these demands are met, the students have said they plan on staying.

The Gaza Health Ministry reported Wednesday that the overall Palestinian death toll from the Israel-Hamas war is at least 34,262.

The deadline will be for protestors to take down their tents once and for all. Columbia leadership says they are still in talks with protesters and a formal process to remove the encampment is underway.