Allegedly, during an anti-Israel protest at Yale University, Sahar Tartak, a Jewish student journalist, was reportedly assaulted when someone wielding a Palestinian flag stabbed her in the eye. Despite the severity of the attack, organizers purportedly hindered Tartak from pursuing her assailant, opting instead to question her intentions. Tartak, along with a friend donning Hasidic Jewish attire, faced obstruction and disruption while attempting to document the incident.
Describing the chaotic scene, Tartak recounted how she and her companion were subjected to taunting and gestures of aggression before the assault occurred. According to university guidelines, demonstrators are prohibited from obstructing access to entrances and risk being classified as trespassers if they refuse to vacate upon request. Yale University has asserted its stance against violence on campus and has initiated an investigation into the incident.
Despite Tartak’s calls for the university to address the issue promptly, she expressed disappointment in its perceived inaction, highlighting a pattern of protest-related disruptions. In a personal account published in The Free Press, Tartak disclosed the harrowing experience of being targeted because of her Jewish identity. She emphasized how she and her friend were isolated amidst the chaos, attributing the segregation to their conspicuous Jewish attire.
Tartak’s background includes enrollment at Yale University since 2022, pursuing a major in History. Prior to Yale, she attended Great Neck North High School and has been involved with organizations such as the Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism. Additionally, Tartak has contributed articles to prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Free Beacon, and American Battlefield Trust.
Her narrative sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals expressing their Jewish identity amidst contentious demonstrations, prompting reflection on the importance of fostering an inclusive and safe environment within academic institutions.