Senior QUB Staff Member Receives ‘Viable Threat’ Following Protest

Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) has reported that a senior staff member received a “viable threat on their life” in the aftermath of a protest related to Hilary Clinton’s visit. BBC News NI was informed that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) conducted the assessment of this threat. The university also stated that students have faced threats and three members of staff sustained injuries. The PSNI indicated that it does not discuss the security of individuals but sought to reassure the public that “appropriate action” would be taken if someone is at risk. Meanwhile, three men have been charged with resisting arrest following the demonstration on Thursday. These individuals, aged 18, 20, and 21, were apprehended during the pro-Palestinian protest. The 18-year-old also faces a charge of obstructing police, while the 21-year-old is charged with both obstructing police and assault on police. Their appearance before Belfast Magistrates’ Court is scheduled for 12 December. In a statement, Queen’s University Belfast declared: “The University is calling for protestors to deescalate and engage only in peaceful protests, in the interest of public safety and to prevent our students’ putting their futures at risk.” A fourth man, aged 57, was also arrested on Thursday but was subsequently released. Police reported that several officers were injured during the protest. Hilary Clinton, who previously served as United States secretary of state and first lady, has held the position of university chancellor since 2021.