Los Angeles, California – A pro-Palestinian protest outside a synagogue in Los Angeles turned violent as clashes erupted with pro-Israel counterprotesters on Sunday. The incident, condemned by officials including President Joe Biden, was criticized as antisemitic.
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to two protests in the predominantly Jewish neighborhood of Pico-Robertson, near Beverly Hills. Videos captured police pushing pro-Palestinian protesters away from the entrance of the Adas Torah temple, an Orthodox synagogue.
Chants of “Free, free Palestine – from the river to the sea,” and “long live intifada,” were heard among the pro-Palestinian protesters, who blocked traffic and engaged in altercations in the street. One person was arrested for possessing a prohibited item during the protest.
During a news conference, Los Angeles Police Department Interim Chief Dominic Choi stated that detectives are investigating all acts of violence. He emphasized that while peaceful protests are permitted, violence will not be tolerated in the city.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced plans to meet with the city attorney’s office to address permits for protests, guidelines for wearing masks at protests, and setting clear boundaries between lawful and unlawful activities. Additionally, she will convene a meeting with leaders of religious and cultural centers to discuss safeguarding sacred spaces and protecting community members.
The protest stemmed from an Israel real estate event at the Adas Torah synagogue, promoted by My Home in Israel Real Estate. Pro-Palestinian groups organized a protest against the event, citing concerns about settler expansion in Palestine.
As tensions escalated outside the synagogue, violence erupted between the two groups, with videos showing taunting, shoving, and altercations. Police monitored the situation and ordered the crowd to disperse, with efforts by bystanders to de-escalate the clashes.
The Jewish Federation Los Angeles nonprofit thanked officials for their support in condemning the violence and antisemitism displayed during the protests. They emphasized the need to protect the Jewish community from harassment, intimidation, and physical attacks.
In conclusion, the clashes outside the synagogue in Los Angeles underscored the rising tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict in the United States. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of peaceful and respectful dialogue to address contentious issues and prevent further violence in communities.