UCLA Clashes: Pro-Palestinian Protesters Attacked by Israel Supporters

UCLA Clashes: Pro-Palestinian Protesters Attacked by Israel Supporters

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A pro-Palestinian protest at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) turned violent when a group of pro-Israel counter-demonstrators attacked a solidarity encampment occupied by peaceful protesters. Witnesses reported that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) only intervened after nearly four hours of attacks, which started overnight into Wednesday when masked pro-Israel counter-demonstrators hurled fireworks into the encampment. The attackers, carrying Israeli flags, then tried to tear down the pro-Palestinian camp, assaulting students with pepper spray, sticks, stones, and metal fencing. Police stood by, failing to protect students.

Eventually, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement on Wednesday morning that police were responding to requests for support from the UCLA administration. LAPD confirmed their intervention at about 2 am. The antiwar group said that “law enforcement simply stood at the edge of the lawn and refused to budge as we screamed for their help. The only means of protection we had was each other” as the attack went on for more than seven hours.

Nationwide escalation

The recent attack at UCLA is part of a nationwide escalation of demonstrations against Israel's war on Gaza that have spread to universities across the United States and some universities in other countries. Students at UCLA have occupied campus grounds for the past two days, calling for the divestment of the university's financial ties to Israel. The protests have been ongoing for two weeks, and the situation has become increasingly tense.

On Tuesday, New York City police arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had been holed up in an academic building on the Columbia University campus in Manhattan. The Ivy League school had sought to dismantle a protest encampment that had been in place for nearly two weeks. The police action happened on the 56th anniversary of a similar move to quash an occupation of Hamilton Hall by students protesting against racism and the Vietnam War.

Meanwhile, at The City College of New York, demonstrators were in a standoff with police outside the public college's main gate. Video on social media showed officers shoving people around as they cleared them from the street and pavements. Many arrested protesters were driven away on city buses.

The delayed police response to the violence at UCLA has been criticized by some, who believe it will serve as "inspiration" to potential attackers seeking to force pro-Palestinian protesters to drop their demands. However, it is unclear how the mob at UCLA was organized.

According to Al Jazeera's Reynolds, the mob at UCLA reminded him of "settler violence on the [occupied] West Bank without the use of as much lethal force, but this is clearly a violent, uncontrolled mob that is bent on mayhem". He also noted that one member of the pro-Israel mob carried a large yellow flag with a crown and the word "Messiah", which he said are symbols of radical, far-right Jewish groups.

The situation remains tense, and it is unclear how the protests will be resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Caused the Recent Protests at UCLA?

The recent protests at UCLA were sparked by Israel's war on Gaza. Pro-Palestinian groups organized demonstrations on campus to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemn Israel's actions.

How Have UCLA Authorities Responded to the Campus Demonstrations?

UCLA authorities have responded to the campus demonstrations by declaring the pro-Palestinian encampment unlawful and ordering everyone to leave. The university has also condemned the violence and called for peaceful protests.

What Are the Demands of the Pro-Palestinian Protesters at UCLA?

The pro-Palestinian protesters at UCLA are demanding an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories and the blockade of Gaza. They also want the university to divest from companies that support Israel's actions.

Have There Been Any Incidents of Violence During the UCLA Protests?

Yes, there have been incidents of violence during the UCLA protests. A vigilante pro-Israel mob attacked a solidarity encampment occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters, leading to clashes between the two groups. One person was driven away in an ambulance.

What Has Been the Reaction of the Student Body to the Clashes at UCLA?

The reaction of the student body to the clashes at UCLA has been mixed. Some students have expressed support for the pro-Palestinian protesters, while others have criticized their tactics and condemned the violence.

How Is the Situation at UCLA Affecting the Broader Community?

The situation at UCLA is affecting the broader community by raising awareness about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. It has also sparked a larger conversation about the role of universities in social justice movements and the importance of free speech and peaceful protest.

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