UFC Council Annuls Agreement with Israeli University Amidst Genocide Allegations

In a decisive move, the Conselho Universitário (University Council) of the Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC) has taken a firm stand against what it describes as ongoing acts of genocide in Gaza. In doing so, they have annulled an agreement for academic exchange and cooperation with Israel’s Ben-Gurion University. This action aligns UFC with numerous Brazilian and international institutions that seek to sever ties with Israeli academic entities until the cessation of hostilities.

On October 6, 2025, the Council issued a statement condemning what it perceives as severe violations by Israel of international norms. The statement emphasizes “vehement repudiation” of the ongoing situation in Gaza, declaring an inability to continue tolerating these actions under any circumstance. This declaration is not just administrative; it is a powerful testament to the university’s solidarity with the Palestinian people amid alleged atrocities.

The Council highlighted concerns about the treatment of individuals like deputada federal Luizianne Lins, a former professor at UFC and currently detained as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla incident. This group was intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, which has been under blockade. The interception is described in the statement as a “criminal act” executed against individuals from various nationalities on international waters.

The Council’s decision echoes a broader global call for academic institutions to reconsider their affiliations with entities involved in geopolitical conflicts that violate human rights. By aligning itself with other organizations worldwide, UFC positions itself not just as an educational body but as an advocate for peace and justice.

This decision comes amid growing concerns within the university community about ethical responsibilities and the role of academia in global politics. The Council’s solidarity statement also underscores a commitment to ensuring dignity and humanity for all detainees involved in humanitarian efforts, advocating for their safe treatment and release.

Through this resolution, UFC demonstrates its unwavering support for international law and human rights, prioritizing moral responsibility over conventional academic partnerships. This move is both a reflection of internal consensus among the university’s stakeholders and an acknowledgment of broader socio-political dynamics that demand action beyond academic confines.

For further insights into global politics and their intersection with academia, consider subscribing to platforms offering in-depth analyses and updates on these pressing issues.

Original article source: O POVO{:target=“_blank”}