Columbus, Ohio - In a disturbing series of events, two Ohio State University students were assaulted and the Hillel Wexner Jewish Student Center was vandalized. The incidents, which occurred on Thursday, were described by Acting President Dr. Peter Mohler as direct targeting of the Jewish community.

According to Mohler, the assaults took place around 1:30 a.m. on Friday near 15th Avenue and High Street. The two students had just left a bar when they were approached by two men. The assailants enquired about the students' religion and proceeded to hurl antisemitic slurs before physically assaulting them. Both students were struck in the face before the perpetrators fled the scene on foot.

One of the victims was treated at the Wexner Medical Center and subsequently released. Mohler expressed concern for the well-being of the assaulted students and their families, assuring them that all possible assistance would be provided.

In a separate incident that occurred earlier that day, the Hillel Wexner Jewish Student Center, located just blocks away from the assault, was subjected to vandalism. Surveillance footage captured two women entering the center and requesting a tour, which was granted by the staff. However, one of the women entered a room and began removing Israeli flags.

Upon being confronted, the woman fled while shouting offensive remarks including accusations of supporting genocide and a call for a "Free Palestine." The flags were dropped before the culprits, accompanied by a man driving a car, made their escape.

Mohler condemned the act of vandalism, emphasizing that antisemitism had no place in the community. The university administration vowed to pursue all necessary actions against individuals involved in hate crimes on or near the campus. Naomi Lamb, a representative of the Hillel Wexner Jewish Student Center, had called on Mohler to condemn the act of vandalism before the assaults occurred.

It is important to note that the police have not established a direct connection between the two incidents. Authorities are currently investigating both cases and urge anyone with information to contact them at 614-645-4545.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed his outrage over the incidents and instructed the Ohio State Highway Patrol to coordinate with the university's police department and the Columbus police to provide additional patrols in the campus vicinity. Emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance towards hate and violence, Governor DeWine pledged to protect all students in Ohio.

These appalling acts have left the community concerned, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and support. The university and law enforcement authorities are working together to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the students, while endeavors to foster a spirit of inclusivity and combat hate continue.