UCLA Protest Erupts Into Violence as Clash Breaks Out Between Pro-Palestinian and Counter-Protesters
Amid escalating tensions, a clash between dozens of pro-Palestinian and counter-protesters unfolded on the UCLA campus, resulting in one person being taken to the hospital in an ambulance. The UCLA administration had deemed the pro-Palestinian encampment unlawful, triggering the confrontation. Law enforcement, represented by the Los Angeles Police Department and the University of California Police Department (UCPD), appeared to step back, leaving the situation to escalate further. The victim’s injuries remain undisclosed.
While the violence was unabated, Mayor Karen Bass’ office expressed its support and dispatched LAPD to assist the UCPD at UCLA. However, no immediate intervention transpired as the clash between the two groups endured.
Source: CBS News
Credit: KCAL News
Protests and Clashes Continue Late into the Night
As the night progressed, the clashes between the two factions endured, with fireworks being hurled at the encampments. Alongside these fireworks, confrontations brimmed as individuals swinging what appeared to be skateboards added to the violence. Moments of the unrest were captured on video, exposing the extent of the melees and the forceful exhibition of hostility.
Another firework in the camp pic.twitter.com/aJN4HTeHlI
This push/pull keeps happening pic.twitter.com/1CJ3vnEuwF
More chaos here, took a cloud of mace right to the noggin pic.twitter.com/6gPX6PF8Ks
Counter-Protesters Escalate Violence, Attacking the Encampment
Counter-protesters propelled the violence by tossing traffic cones, a scooter, wooden pallets, and possible smoke bombs at individuals at the barrier of the pro-Palestinian encampment. The make-shift barrier was damaged and partially broken, with metal fences being used to separate the two opposing groups. As tensions escalated, members from the encampment were pepper-sprayed amidst the chaos.
After witnessing the deteriorating situation, some protesters began to dismantle the metal barriers, while others attacked the wooden fence. The skirmish continued without police intervention. As the chaos unfolded, LAPD officers eventually gathered nearby but were not seen in the encampment area until hours later.
Background: From a Peaceful Movement to an Unlawful Encampment
Almost a week before the clash, protesters established a tent city on the UCLA campus, pushing for their demands, prominently including divestment from Israel. However, the UCLA administration declared the encampment unlawful, ordering everyone present to vacate the area or face potential arrest. This decision prompted an increase in tensions, ultimately leading to the violent confrontation on Tuesday night.
Though the confrontation occurred amidst midterms, blocking access to the library, supporters of the encampment insisted on remaining. They cited mistreatment and claimed that the administration held complicity in the Palestinian genocide. Non-UCLA individuals were also requested to depart, and people were cautioned about potential sanctions, including disciplinary measures and suspensions.
UC President Michael Drake expressed support for UCLA’s decision to declare the encampment unlawful. He emphasized the importance of observing the balance between free expression and maintaining an environment conducive to learning and the safety of the university community.
Earlier the same Tuesday, clashes between protesters and Jewish students ensued as the encampment obstructed access to the library during midterms. Frustrations arose as students felt impeded in their pursuit of education.
Author: Tom Wait
