In light of the recent crossfire in the Gaza Strip, the University cancelled several study-abroad programs in Jersusalem - a relatively peaceful city miles from Gaza. But while the fighting seems far removed from Jerusalem, it's impossible to know that it will stay that way.
The risk that the violence might escalate is palpable. The State Department has posted travel warnings because of the conflict, and the University is right to heed these and acknowledge that they can't adequately protect students in the area or predict future events in the area.
Although undergraduates are capable adults, Penn is responsible for the safety of all students, at home and abroad, and this must be the highest priority. In this case, sometimes a hot spot is simply too hot.
It must be noted, however, that Israel is unique among study-abroad destinations due to the strong cultural, religious and historical pull for many of the students who choose to study there. This makes the decision to cancel the programs particularly painful and even unpopular.
But that is not enough of a reason for Penn to place students in the region. Travel to the country has not stopped, and students who still wish to study in Israel can and should do so through other outlets.
And if students decide to spend this semester in Israel by taking a leave of absence from Penn, the University should help those students re-enroll and receive credit for their coursework in the fall.
At least until then, though, Penn can't in good conscience send students to Israel.
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