Law enforcement agencies at the University of California, Los Angeles faced off against a left-wing mob on Thursday morning as nationwide anti-Israel protests escalated. The situation escalated as police in riot gear knocked down a plywood barrier surrounding the anti-Israel encampment at UCLA and entered the area after hours of a tense standoff with hundreds of protesters on campus.
After entering the encampment in Dickson Plaza, police appeared to withdraw from the area, leading to another standoff with the protesters. Some individuals in the crowd threw water bottles and other objects at the officers as they regrouped outside the encampment and the plywood barrier was put back up.
Armed with batons and in full riot gear, California Highway Patrol officers returned about an hour later and stood within feet of scores of protesters who were throwing objects and yelling. Law enforcement made a massive display, sending in columns of officers who closed in on all sides of the encampment.
Protesters could be heard shouting various slogans, including 'We're not leaving,' 'Shame,' and 'We do not consent to a search.' The protesters continued to fortify the barrier separating them from multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the night.
UCLA has moved classes to remote learning on Thursday and Friday due to the emergency on campus. The large police presence began arriving late Wednesday afternoon after a dispersal order was issued. LAPD and surrounding agencies were not requested for assistance by UCLA until after midnight, with chaos erupting on campus around 11 p.m. local time.
The violence at UCLA has drawn criticism from political leaders and advocacy groups. UCLA Chancellor condemned the attack on the encampment and promised a thorough investigation that may lead to arrests, expulsions, and dismissals. The encampment, now full of hundreds of people and tents, has become a focal point for protesters advocating for Palestinian rights.
The situation remains tense on campus as law enforcement continues to engage with protesters. The chancellor has not yet addressed the incident unfolding Thursday morning.
