An Israeli academic at City University in London, Michael Ben-Gad, reported an incident where his lecture was disrupted by masked individuals who allegedly threatened him with beheading. The economics lecturer, who served in the Israel Defense Forces from 1982 to 1985, has been labeled a terrorist by students on campus, leading to calls for his dismissal. During a recent lecture, Ben-Gad claimed that masked individuals approached him, accusing him of war crimes and Nazism.
Speaking to Sky News, Ben-Gad described the protesters’ behavior as disruptive and intimidating, stating that one of them even uttered a threat about beheading him. The professor also mentioned the distribution of leaflets around the university branding him a terrorist, expressing concern for vulnerable individuals, particularly Jewish students facing targeting nationwide.
Despite the challenges he faced, Ben-Gad commended the university for its support and offered paid leave, but he chose to continue his duties. City Action for Palestine initiated a petition demanding the immediate removal of Ben-Gad from his position, along with an apology from City University and a review of their hiring practices.
In response to the situation, a group statement signed by professors and tutors from various UK institutions expressed solidarity with Ben-Gad, denouncing the harassment campaign against him due to his Israeli background. City St George’s University emphasized its commitment to freedom of expression within the law but condemned unlawful attempts to disrupt academic operations and harass staff and students.
The university spokesman reiterated their support for Ben-Gad and affirmed their stance against any form of unlawful interference, emphasizing the importance of protecting staff and students from intimidation. The Mirror has contacted City St George’s for further comments.