Violence erupted at the University of California, Los Angeles when clashes broke out between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Tensions had been simmering, and matters escalated when the buffer zone between the two groups was allegedly breached.
During the night, masked counter-protesters attempted to dismantle barricades and attacked campers with sticks and bats, leading to chaos with fireworks and tear gas filling the air. Some protesters criticized the police response as slow, with law enforcement eventually arriving as dawn broke.
The clash occurred shortly after a similar incident at Columbia University, where students protesting against the war in Gaza had taken over a building. These protests, demanding divestment from Israel and companies profiting from the conflict, have been spreading to universities across the nation.
Mary Osako, a UCLA vice-chancellor, condemned the violence and stated that immediate action was taken by calling in first responders. Classes were canceled in the wake of the unrest.
The university had previously declared the encampment on Dickson Plaza illegal but had refrained from involving law enforcement, describing the protest as largely peaceful. However, tensions escalated, leading to clashes between the two groups separated by barricades.
Videos online showed counter-protesters arriving in black attire and masks, attempting to dismantle barriers, while campers defended their space. Despite pleas for help, some activists felt law enforcement didn’t intervene effectively.
Witnesses reported various forms of assault, including objects being thrown and physical altercations. The situation prompted a significant police presence on campus, with uncertainty remaining about the identities of all involved.
As protests continue to spread, there is mounting pressure on college administrations to address concerns about safety and allegations of antisemitism. Politicians, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass, have condemned the violence.
