In a recent turn of events, the president of Portland State University (PSU) in Oregon, Ann Cudd, has called upon the city's police to remove anti-Israel "trespassers" who have caused significant "property damage" to the campus' main library. Cudd expressed her concerns about the escalating situation on campus, highlighting the break-in at Millar Library by a group of individuals while other protestors blocked access to the building.

Stressing the university's support for free speech, Cudd acknowledged the importance of the Israeli-Gaza conflict to many members of the PSU community, acknowledging the intensity of emotions surrounding the issue. However, she firmly condemned the trespassing and resulting property damage that occurred at the library.

Seeking assistance, PSU has now requested the intervention of the Portland Police Bureau to remove the trespassers from the library. According to police estimates, approximately 50 to 75 individuals are currently inside the building. Graffiti, described as "vile and inappropriate," has been sprayed all over the front of the library, further exacerbating the situation.

Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the breach of the library and fortification efforts transformed the event into a criminal incident, no longer considered a public order or free speech event. Day assured that the police are working closely with PSU's law enforcement to develop a plan aimed at deescalating and resolving the situation with minimal use of force or arrests.

Acknowledging the importance of safe spaces in educational institutions, Mayor Ted Wheeler expressed his disappointment with the protesters' actions. He voiced unified support from the university, city, county, prosecutors, and the police to prevent acts of criminal destruction or violence from prevailing in the city.

As the situation unfolds, authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of the campus community and preserving the integrity of PSU's educational environment.