LOS ANGELES, California – Violence erupted at UCLA’s campus on April 30, during a pro-Palestinian protest, resulting in the worst clashes stemming from ongoing college demonstrations nationwide over Israel’s conflict in Gaza. As counterprotesters attacked the pro-Palestinian encampment, law enforcement remained passive for hours, allowing the violence to escalate.
Amid a criminal investigation into the assaults, the identities of the most aggressive counterprotesters remained largely unknown. A review of footage and social media posts revealed that individuals outside UCLA, rather than university students or faculty, were responsible for the violent attacks, some of which were captured on camera that night.
Counterprotesters, including an aspiring screenwriter and film producer, were joined by other individuals known for disrupting various protests in southern California. The violence was perpetrated by a mix of people, with a local high school student caught on video striking a pro-Palestinian protester with a pole.
One of the central figures in the clashes was a local 18-year-old high school senior named Edan On, who was seen in multiple videos engaging in violent behavior. Despite initial confirmation from his mother, On later denied being present at the UCLA protest.
The incident involved multiple acts of violence, including the use of chemical irritants, wooden planks, and physical assaults on pro-Palestinian protesters by the counterprotesters. Many of the counterprotesters hid their faces behind masks and scarves, contributing to the chaos of the night.
The violence at UCLA prompted outrage and condemnation from various quarters, with Rabbi Chaim Seidler-Feller describing the events as potentially deadly. Following the clashes, UCLA’s chancellor referred to the events as a dark chapter in the institution’s history.
As investigations into the incident continued, the impact of the violence on those involved, including students, journalists, and protesters, highlighted the tensions and divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The aftermath of the clashes raised concerns about safety, accountability, and the need for dialogue to address underlying issues fueling such confrontations.
Overall, the clashes at UCLA exposed deep-seated animosities and tensions within the community, underscoring the complexities and challenges of navigating contentious political issues on college campuses. The incident served as a stark reminder of the potential for violence and polarization in an already volatile and divisive environment.