Violence erupted on the UCLA campus Sunday when pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups clashed after a barrier separating them was breached. According to UCLA Vice Chancellor Mary Osako, the incident led to physical altercations among demonstrators. “UCLA has a long history of being a place of peaceful protest. We are heartbroken about the violence that broke out,” Osako stated. The demonstrations included a sanctioned event by the United Jewish Coalition in collaboration with the Israeli American Council, intended to show support for Jewish students and educate attendees following the denial of a previous permit.
The pro-Palestinian protesters had established an encampment near Royce Hall since Thursday, advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza. The presence and growth of these encampments on campus have become a focal point for unrest, with UCLA maintaining that the protests had been peaceful until Sunday’s escalation.
Meanwhile, nearby University of Southern California also experienced heightened tensions, as protests on Saturday led to property vandalism and forced campus closures. USC administration expressed concerns over escalating responses, emphasizing the need for calm. The incidents at both universities underscore growing tensions in the region, reflecting broader geopolitical conflicts.
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