Los Angeles, California – The unrest at UCLA captured by photojournalists has shed light on the escalating tension between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and pro-Israeli counterprotesters. Anthony Cabassa, one of the photojournalists on the scene, visually documented the violent clash between the opposing groups.
Around 10:14 p.m., a small group of counterprotesters arrived at the encampment and began blaring music loudly, heightening the already intense atmosphere. Within 30 minutes, more counterprotesters joined in, amplifying the noise with another loudspeaker.
By 11:20 p.m., the situation had deteriorated further as barriers were destroyed, fireworks set off, and mace sprayed. The chaotic scene unfolded with fights erupting, some individuals donning masks and wielding what appeared to be metal poles, while clouds of smoke filled the air and projectiles were hurled into the tents.
At 12:10 a.m., amidst the escalating violence, private security staff from Apex Security Group in Northridge, California, were observed standing idly by as skirmishes ensued. The conflict escalated as rival protesters engaged in physical altercations, with one individual reportedly struck with a metal pole, as documented in videos capturing the unfolding events.
At 1:21 a.m., Cabassa’s camera captured a disturbing scene of a man with a bloodied head being led away from the violence, with witnesses recounting that he had been struck with a metal rod. The arrival of police was met with chants of “USA! USA!” from the pro-Israel demonstrators, further intensifying the emotions running high at the scene.
Ultimately, by 2 a.m., police had successfully intervened to separate the warring factions, restoring a sense of calm to the campus. Despite their efforts, protesters have not complied with the police’s request to disperse, indicating a lingering tension and unresolved issues following the violent clashes at UCLA.