Los Angeles, CA – Violence erupted at the University of California, Los Angeles when clashes broke out between pro-Palestinian protesters and counterprotesters. The skirmish lasted for nearly five hours with minimal police intervention, according to a comprehensive review of over 100 videos obtained by The New York Times. The altercation was instigated by counterprotesters seen in videos attacking students in the pro-Palestinian encampment, deploying sticks, chemical sprays, and fireworks as weapons.
The clashes ensued after counterprotesters attempted to dismantle the barricades set up by the pro-Palestinian protesters to cordon off their encampment. The violent encounter persisted for hours before police arrived, with no arrests made in connection to the attack at that time. The counterprotesters, some of whom were identified by pro-Israel slogans on their attire, engaged in physical altercations with the encampment protesters, launching fireworks and using makeshift weapons.
Videos showed the counterprotesters swarming individuals, engaging in physical violence by punching, kicking, and using various items as weapons against the encampment protesters. Despite sporadic attempts from the encampment protesters to defend themselves, footage did not portray them initiating confrontations beyond protecting their barricades. The encampment was declared illegal by U.C.L.A. officials prior to the escalation of violence.
Law enforcement’s delayed response to the escalating situation drew criticism, with many questioning the handling of the incident. Fifteen people were reportedly injured during the altercation, prompting action from university officials and law enforcement to disband the encampment and make arrests. The incident sparked condemnations from various organizations, with calls for investigations into the lack of police intervention from advocates.
In the aftermath of the clash, Chancellor Gene Block of U.C.L.A. denounced the actions of the instigators who attacked the encampment. Jewish and Muslim organizations in Los Angeles voiced their disapproval of the attacks, with demands for accountability and responsive actions from law enforcement and university officials. The incident raised concerns about the safety and security measures in place at U.C.L.A., prompting calls for thorough investigations and reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.