UAE deports student for wearing keffiyeh, chanting "Free Palestine" slogan

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly deported a student for wearing keffiyeh and chanting Free Palestine slogans at a graduation ceremony at Abu Dhabi's New York University campus, Middle East Eye reported on Thursday.

According to the publication, the incident took place in May this year.

The publication said that the student, who has not been identified yet, was arrested by the police following the incident.

"Then [she was] deported just days after the incident," MEE added.

The publication citing students reported that a ban was imposed on displaying the "Palestinian flag anywhere on campus" prior to the ceremony.

"An email was sent banning "cultural attire" at the graduation," the news outlet mentioned in its report.

"Since 2020, when the UAE normalised relations with Israel, the Gulf state has struggled to balance popular support for the Palestinian people with support for its new diplomatic partner and ally," the MEE said.

The Israeli military offensive in Gaza has had a devastating impact, killing 38,000 Palestinians and injuring tens of thousands more. 

The population of Gaza has decreased from 2.3 million to 2.1 million, according to recent estimates by the UN humanitarian community.

Despite the devastation, Hamas has not backtracked from its commitment to make Palestine an independent state. 

"We will not surrender our homes, our land, or our rights," a Hamas spokesperson said.

On the other hand, a survey conducted by Israeli media channel 12 News revealed that almost 68% Jews believe their country is far from achieving victory in the one-sided war in Gaza.