New York, NY (May 14, 2026) — An antisemitic flag featuring swastikas and imagery resembling a modified Israeli flag was raised above New York University’s campus in Lower Manhattan this week, prompting condemnation from university officials and an ongoing police investigation.

The flag was spotted flying atop a campus building overlooking Washington Square Park during graduation week before it was quickly removed. Witnesses described the banner as containing stripes and a Star of David alongside large swastikas, creating what officials called a hateful antisemitic symbol.

NYU administrators said campus safety officers responded immediately after the flag was discovered. University officials stated they were deeply disturbed by the incident and confirmed they are working with the NYPD to identify those responsible.

The incident has renewed concerns about antisemitism on college campuses, particularly in New York City, where Jewish advocacy groups say antisemitic incidents have sharply increased in recent years. The Anti-Defamation League recently reported that New York State recorded the highest number of antisemitic incidents nationwide in 2025, with New York City accounting for hundreds of cases.

The latest episode also comes months after another antisemitic incident at NYU, when a Jewish freshman reported hateful graffiti targeting him on his dormitory door. University leadership at the time publicly condemned the act and reiterated a zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism and discrimination.

Officials emphasized that the university community would continue working to prevent hate from taking hold on campus as investigators attempt to determine who was behind the display.

The incident also sparked political backlash online, with critics questioning continued federal support for the university. One widely shared response directly addressed Education Secretary Linda McMahon, asking why NYU should continue receiving hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding amid repeated antisemitic incidents on campus.

Graduation is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, not fear and hate.

We are in close contact with NYU and have offered assistance to @NYPDnews as they investigate this disgusting act.

Antisemitism has no place in our state, on our campuses, or in our communities. https://t.co/qy5Kh2Nkso

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) May 14, 2026