Stanford students face trial over felony charges stemming from pro-Palestinian protest

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 5 min read 100% complete by Alice SperiJanuary 5, 2026 at 06:04 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Five Stanford University students are facing trial on felony charges of conspiracy to trespass and vandalism stemming from a June 2024 pro-Palestinian protest. The students, part of a group of twelve, occupied the university president’s office, demanding Stanford consider divesting from Israel. They unofficially renamed the building after a Palestinian surgeon. The Santa Clara County District Attorney announced the charges nearly a year later, stating that while dissent is protected, vandalism is criminal. One student initially charged is cooperating with prosecutors. The trial is proceeding despite questions about the timing and severity of the charges.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Trump administration 50% Adnan al-Bursh 50% United States ×260% Gaza 60% Santa Clara County ×270% Israel ×270% Jeff Rosen ×380% Stanford University ×490%

Keywords

pro-palestinian protest 100% felony charges 90% stanford university 80% israel's war in gaza 70% divest from israel 60% student activism 60% campus protest 50% vandalism 50% criminal trial 40%