‘Full cooperation’: How Tel Aviv University serves Israel’s security state

An investigation reveals Tel Aviv University's deepening ties with Israel's security establishment, including Shin Bet recruitment and military presentations at graduation ceremonies, sparking protests from students and faculty.

An investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call reveals that Tel Aviv University has increasingly integrated Israel's security establishment into campus life. At a July 16 doctoral graduation ceremony, Brig. Gen. (res.) Danny Gold, head of the Defense Ministry's research directorate, delivered a lecture showcasing Israeli weapons systems and airstrike footage, prompting walkouts and protests from graduates and family members. Palestinian doctoral graduate Dr. Jad Ka'dan described the event as humiliating. The university later apologized for the speech but rejected accusations of militarization. Separately, the university's Career Development Center invited students in Middle Eastern and Arabic studies to a recruitment event with a Shin Bet representative, raising concerns about framing Arabic studies through a security lens. Palestinian students reported not receiving the invitation.