Gov. Greg Abbott sent a letter to Texas universities schools warning them to be "vigilant" as the anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel approaches.

"As I have already made clear, antisemitism is never acceptable in Texas and there is zero tolerance for acts of antisemitism on Texas college and university campuses," Abbott wrote on Thursday. "I commend the leadership of your institutions for acting quickly to condemn antisemitism and taking necessary action to address violent protests and dismantle illegal encampments."

Abbott commended schools for quickly addressing antisemitic incidents and reminded leaders of his March executive order, which required universities to update free speech policies, enforce consequences for antisemitic actions and dismantle illegal encampments.

"It is imperative that you continue taking the necessary steps to combat antisemitism on

your campuses and ensure a safe environment for Jewish staff, students, and faculty.

Texas will continue to stand with Israel and the Jewish community in the fight against

antisemitism," he said.

Abbott's letter comes as campus protests ramp up again across the country in response to the ongoing Israel-Gaza war. Demonstrations have already taken place at Columbia University and the University of Michigan, leading to several arrests.

Topics Texas, Israel, Attack