Rutgers University withdraws graduation speaker’s invite over Israel criticism

Rutgers University has withdrawn an invitation for business leader Rami Elghandour to deliver a graduation speech, following concerns raised by students regarding his social media posts critical of Israel.

Elghandour, who serves as CEO of biotech company Arcellx and is an alumnus of the New Jersey institution, was scheduled to give the convocation address for the School of Engineering on May 15.

The university confirmed the invitation was rescinded after it became aware that "some graduating students would not attend their graduation ceremony due to concerns about the invited speaker’s social media posts," a Rutgers spokesperson stated. While the spokesperson did not specify the exact posts, they confirmed the content focused on Israel.

Elghandour has not responded to requests for comment.

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His social media activity frequently includes sharing news articles and footage depicting violence in Gaza and the West Bank, often accompanied by his own commentary accusing Israel of committing war crimes and maintaining a system of apartheid.

He also acted as executive producer for "The Voice of Hind Rajab," a documentary about a 5-year-old Palestinian girl killed by Israel Defense Forces.

This cancellation unfolds as the spring commencement season once again ignites debate surrounding student protests against the conflict in Gaza.

These demonstrations have significantly impacted U.S. campuses in recent years, leading to numerous canceled speeches and disruptions during graduation ceremonies.

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Earlier this week, the University of Michigan publicly distanced itself from a commencement speech by history professor Derek R. Peterson, who briefly commended pro-Palestinian student activists. That address prompted threats from Republican officials and donors to cut university funding, arguing the remarks fostered a hostile environment for Jewish students.

The subsequent apology from the university president has since drawn criticism from academic and free-speech organizations.

On Tuesday, Elghandour shared a clip of Peterson’s Michigan speech on X, adding his own caption: "Most people choose convenience. Professor Peterson chose principle. True leadership. Much respect."