UMass Amherst Suspends Student Programs In Israel Due To Gaza Conflict

The University of Massachusetts at Amherst has suspended student participation in all education programs in Israel due to security concerns and the Gaza war.

The university's International Risk Management Committee announced last week it suspended student participation for the fall semester.

UMass said it considered information from various sources, including insurance and risk management consultants and the U.S. Department of State, which recommends that nonessential travel be deferred.

UMass said it also considered the recent evacuation of its students and faculty from Israel.

The university said the timing of its decision was motivated by a student who was to begin a program at Tel Aviv University this week. Another student scheduled for a program at Bar Ilan University beginning in October also will be affected by the cancellation.