Tensions high at UCLA campus as police order anti-war protesters to disperse or face arrests

Law enforcement on the UCLA campus donned riot gear Wednesday evening as they ordered the dispersal of over a thousand people who had gathered in support of a pro-Gaza solidarity student encampment, warning over loudspeakers that anyone who refused to leave could face arrest.
A large crowd of students, members of the community and others gathered on campus steps outside the barricaded area of tents mostly stayed put, sitting as they listened and applauded various speakers and joined in pro-Palestinian chants. Overheard television cameras showed students in the barricaded area passing out goggles and helmets, as well as setting up medical aid stations. A small group of students holding signs and wearing T-shirts in support of Israel and Jewish people gathered nearby.
The law enforcement presence and continued warnings stood in contrast to the scene that unfolded on Wednesday, when counter-demonstrators attacked the pro-Palestinian encampment, throwing fireworks, irritant chemical sprays, poles made of metal and sticks made of wood. Fighting continued for several hours before police stepped in, and no one was arrested. At least 15 protesters suffered injuries, and the tepid response by authorities drew criticism from political leaders as well as Muslim students and advocacy groups.

Al Jazeera’s Rob Reynolds joins us live from UCLA campus in Los Angeles to discuss the latest updates.

#UCLA #UniversityOfCaliforniaLosAngeles #California #LAPD #GazaGenocide #FreePalestine #PalestineSolidarityProtests #GazaSolidarityEncampment #GazaSolidarityProtests #WarOnGaza #StopTheGenocide #GazaEncampment #CampusProtests #ProPalestineProtesters #ProIsraelProtesters

[romero]

Protest against Genocide is appropriate and not ANTISEMETIC.

[davidladuke]

Tension is the wrong framing. The cops let a mob attack a peaceful encampment and the people are calling their BS.

[im]

We Condemns Police Brutal Crackdowns On Students And Sexual abuses

[gozzog]

Last night, Securty was visibly told to stand down, LA cops as well... must be nice to have such Disproportionate Power.

Imagine thinking Israel isnt the problem here

[baltom]

Thanks for doing actual journalism. So few places exist to get news instead of garbage state propaganda.

[lawtonloraine]

It would be so much more disturbing if young people were not protesting the murder of thousands of children in a genocide

[phyybalance]

Why don’t these cops go arrest the robbers who raided retail stores?

[carsandme]

Despite the arrests I wish for all the success in the world for these strong brave and bold students who stood up for what is right. May they achieve their goal in this life and in the hereafter Amen.

[mwkmloq]

New generation of America, the world 🌎 is proud 👏 of you ❤️. Thank you so much.

[DurgaDas]

The group is very energetic, motivated, almost celebratory. Standing side by side, ready to sacrifice for justice. Oh…To be young again! To dance, to dream of saving the world, to celebrate freedom and meaning, side by side with your brothers and sisters!

[timward]

I doubt that Brown will divest, though. Delaying, kicking the can down the road, probably just buys the university time.

[adilabdullahi]

protesting war does not mean semitesim

[saad]

Am not worried, Gaza will free the whole world

[mikeneidlinger]

I am flying into Los Angeles tonight to counter protest against the Police!

[georgiosdem]

Stop the war.
Freedom in Palestine for a rule of law and their right to freedom, justice and recognition of their rights for an independent state of Palestine.

[mdehsanDH]

Why not arrest zoinists gang? Who attacked on peaceful protest?

[Rnankn]

Waving Israeli flags and attacking students with sticks?? FTLOG

[JackFieldBand]

Why doesn't Egypt let in refugees even temporarily until the war is over?

[naba]

If America subdue the protesters, it will subdue the spirit of american strength...

[lutherdean]

thanks for sharing this the world is watching