When students speak out on news-generated issues they almost always make action demands on the administration. This is a time to arrange opportunities to listen.
Whether it’s Vietnam or the current situation in Gaza, it will very likely play out about the same. As news reporting progresses, both opinions and demands become more informed. This is how meaningful dialog can emerge.
Problems appear when nonstudents try to become the protest leader. The institution should have been working ahead to inform their students about this possibility. Current students must already know how they will be protected from outsiders. Taking over buildings will not be allowed. Access to conversations with administrators, even the president, will be allowed.
Recent protests have fundamentally been antiwar protests, along with concerns for the welfare of the many Palestinians who are not connected with the extreme methods of Hamas, In this case many students in time will likely become two-state solution advocates, and will participate in good discussions about how to achieve it.
Experienced college Presidents constantly deal with political pressures from trustees, alumni, parents, and student leaders about issues in the news. Most have learned to be good listeners. They will see these moments as good learning opportunities.