‘Irvine II’ backers call for probe of ‘Zionist influence’

Thursday, March 18, 2010 | by

Supporters of 11 university students arrested for disrupting a campus speech are expressing concern about “Zionist influence” on the disciplinary process.

The students, arrested last month after they repeatedly interrupted Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, during a speech at U.C. Irvine, are facing disciplinary action from the university and potentially criminal prosecution.

A campaign to defend them is drawing support from national organizations, including the Muslim Public Affairs Council.

“We call for an immediate investigation into the communications and agreements between U.C. leadership, including President Mark Yudof, and external Zionist organizations that threaten the academic futures of the ‘Irvine 11’ and derail the academic freedom of all U.C. students,” said a news release from Stand with the Eleven.

The communications in question took place last week, when representatives of the Jewish Federation of Orange County met with Yudof, president of the U.C. system. Following the meeting, federation CEO Shalom Elcott said Yudof told them the students should be prosecuted for violating the student code of conduct and breaking the law.

The campaign has accused the university of “selective enforcement,” “disproportionate punishment” and a “draconian response.”

To date, the university has taken no punitive action against the arrested students. An academic disciplinary process is expected to conclude within the coming days. — jta