David M. Cutler, Interim Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, announced that Kafadar would step down as director in December 2024. It was learned that Bsheer was similarly removed from her post.
In recent months, events on the Israel-Palestine conflict organized by the CMES have drawn criticism from some circles. Certain groups within the university alleged that these programs contained antisemitic elements and that the Israeli perspective was not sufficiently represented.
Some other universities in the U.S. have also entered a process of reviewing their Middle Eastern studies programs. Columbia University had previously taken a similar step, restructuring its programs in this field.
While Kafadar and Bsheer's administrative duties have ended, it was reported that both will continue to work as faculty members at Harvard.
News Source: 12punto
