Columbia University "making important progress" in talks with pro-Palestinian protesters

NEW YORK -- Columbia University will continue to hold talks with pro-Palestinian protesters after extending the deadline to dismantle their encampment on the school's main lawn in Manhattan.

University President Dr. Minouche Shafik issued a statement Tuesday saying she and other school leaders were speaking with students to reach an agreement. A university spokesperson confirmed overnight the conversations will continue for the next 48 hours.

If the dialogue is unsuccessful, the school will consider alternative options for clearing out the lawn and restoring calm on campus so students can complete the rest of their semester.