LOS ANGELES, CA – Violence erupted at UCLA last night as a mob of pro-Israel extremists attacked a peaceful anti-genocide student encampment, leaving several injured. The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) condemned the attacks, calling for the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
CAIR-LA Director, Hussam Ayloush, strongly denounced the violent actions of the pro-Israel extremists, emphasizing that free speech should not be met with crimes of hate. He urged political leaders to condemn the attack with the same intensity used to criticize peaceful protests against the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza. The organization also demanded an investigation into the lack of police protection for the anti-genocide students.
The incident at UCLA is part of a concerning trend where students advocating for Palestinian rights are facing discrimination, disinformation, and now violent attacks by pro-Israel mobs. CAIR-LA highlighted the need for universities to ensure that students can peacefully protest against the ongoing violence in Gaza without fear of retaliation.
In recent days, the anti-genocide students at UCLA have faced a series of harassment incidents, including racial slurs, sexual threats, and even the release of live mice into their encampment by pro-Israel extremists. CAIR-LA pointed out the glaring double standard in how such acts of violence are addressed, underscoring the need for accountability and protection for all students engaging in peaceful demonstrations.
The organization called on California Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate the lack of response from law enforcement during the attack and emphasized the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable. CAIR-LA reiterated its commitment to protecting civil rights, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims in the face of escalating violence and hate towards those advocating for Palestinian rights.
CAIR-LA is Southern California’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, dedicated to enhancing understanding of Islam, protecting civil rights, and promoting justice. The group’s mission remains focused on empowering American Muslims and advocating for a just and peaceful society for all.