Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemns Sciences Po blockade: ‘It will never be right to interfere with universities’

The day after a pro-Palestinian protest at Sciences Po, decided by an agreement between demonstrators and management, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal confirmed this Saturday, April 27, 2024 that he “There will never be a right to interfere” in universities.

“There will never be any right to interfere with, or any tolerance for, the actions of an active and dangerous minority that seeks to impose its rules on our students and teachers.”Gabriel Attal on a trip to Pirou, in Manche.

“Work and Heartbreak”

The Prime Minister relented “the sad and horrible sight” of the blockade and part of the property of the Parisian institution by pro-Palestinian demonstrators on Friday, which turned into a serious face-to-face with other demonstrators who are pro-Israel.

However, the situation calmed down in the evening, after management announced the suspension of disciplinary procedures and organized and held an open public meeting. “to all Po Science community”. The students would have promised not to disturb classes again.

Tension

The tension increased on Friday afternoon, when around fifty pro-Israel demonstrators came, mainly shouting “Free Science” or “Free Gaza from Hamas”.

The pro-Palestinian students, some wearing keffiyehs, had the support of elected LFI officials throughout the day, especially the support of Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

“I won’t accept it.”

“For there to be a debate, the rules must be respected, respect for each other’s positions must be permanent, that’s not what we saw yesterday.”considered Gabriel Attal, prosecuting “A minority is harassed by political forces especially La France Insoumise (to) trying to prevent the activity of this institution”.

“I won’t accept it.”he added, promising “Keep your attention […] on respect for the values ​​of the Republic and the law”.