In a brief interruption during the graduation ceremony at the University of Michigan, dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters marched through the aisles of Michigan Stadium, unfurling Palestinian flags and posters. The protesters, wearing kaffiyeh and graduation caps, were met with chants of "Regents, regents, you can't hide! You are funding genocide!" as they made their way towards the stage, as reported by the New York Times.

Despite their efforts, campus police successfully prevented the protesters from reaching the stage and disrupting the nearly two-hour event, attended by tens of thousands of people. The university spokesperson, Colleen Mastony, stated that public safety personnel escorted the demonstrators to the rear of the stadium, where they remained until the conclusion of the ceremony.

The event took place against the backdrop of heightened security measures implemented by the University of Michigan, which included screening and removal of banners and flags. Additionally, tickets were required for the majority of events, as reported by CBS Detroit.

While no arrests were made during the graduation ceremony, one person was arrested prior to the event when police assisted in breaking up a large gathering on campus. The university has allowed protesters to set up an encampment, but recent events have prompted authorities to intervene.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has triggered nationwide demonstrations at colleges and universities, some of which have turned violent. To prevent disruptions during final exams and graduation ceremonies, a small number of universities, including Brown, Northwestern, and Rutgers, have struck agreements with the protesters. These agreements typically involve a commitment to review investments in Israel or consider calls to cease doing business with the U.S. ally.

While some critics argue that these agreements veer into anti-Semitism, they mark a significant shift in addressing the controversial issue. However, the universities have made no promises pertaining to changing their investments.

The demonstrations have led to numerous arrests across the country, with police breaking up demonstrations at various campuses, including the University of Virginia and New York University. Encampments were cleared at The New School in Greenwich Village and the State University of New York at New Paltz, resulting in additional arrests.

The movement originated at Columbia University on April 17 when student protesters set up an encampment demanding an end to the Israel-Hamas war. The conflict in the Gaza Strip has claimed the lives of over 34,000 Palestinians, according to the Health Ministry. Israel launched its offensive in response to a deadly attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and the taking of around 250 hostages.

Overall, while the graduation ceremony at the University of Michigan experienced a temporary disruption, the event proceeded relatively smoothly amid increased security measures. The ongoing protests on campuses across the country highlight the intensifying debate surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict and its impact on educational institutions.