On Sunday, tensions escalated at the UCLA campus as demonstrators breached a security barrier meant to separate opposing protest groups. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered to support an encampment protesting Israel's military campaign in Gaza, while a group of counter-protesters draped in Israeli flags set up a video screen and speaker system.
Reports indicate that both sides engaged in heated confrontations, with individuals screaming, shoving, and pushing each other. The situation occasionally turned violent, prompting concerns about the safety of those involved. Organizers from both groups have expressed efforts to maintain peace amidst the escalating tensions.
Police officers in riot gear were observed standing at a distance from the crowd, although university officials stated that law enforcement would only intervene if students were deemed to be in danger. The breach of the security barrier and physical altercations between protesters have been confirmed by the school's vice chancellor for strategic communications, Mary Osako.
In a statement, UCLA expressed disappointment over the outbreak of violence, emphasizing the university's commitment to being a space for peaceful protests. Information regarding any injuries resulting from the clashes has not been disclosed at this time.
