Los Angeles, California – UCLA police arrested Edan On on May 23 for allegedly participating in a violent attack against a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus. The 18-year-old has been charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon and was released on $30,000 bail. This arrest marks the first known case of a pro-Israel protester being arrested in connection to campus encampment protests that swept across universities nationwide since April, resulting in more than 2,000 pro-Palestinian protesters being detained.
On was identified in a CNN investigative report for his involvement in the assault. Videos from the night of April 30 show a man in a gray sweatshirt attacking a pro-Palestinian protester. His mother confirmed his identity, although she later claimed that he denied being at the scene. On-Siboni’s Facebook post further supported the video evidence, mentioning that her son went to taunt Palestinian students at UCLA and played a controversial song during the incident.
Many criticized UCLA and its police department for their delayed response to the attack. Despite multiple law enforcement agencies being present on campus, officers did not intervene until several hours after the violence began, leaving many injured. The university has since removed its chief of police and hired a consultant to review the department’s handling of the situation.
On, who is not a UCLA student, attended Beverly Hills High School and reportedly planned to join the Israel Defense Forces after graduation, according to his mother. The altercation on April 30 involved a group of pro-Israel supporters instigating violence by throwing firecrackers, poles, sticks, and attempting to dismantle the encampment’s barrier fence. Organizers reported numerous injuries during the altercation.
The incident at UCLA highlights the tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the impact it has on university campuses in the United States. The arrest of On underscores the need for accountability in addressing acts of violence and hate speech in academic settings. As the case develops, it raises questions about the role of law enforcement in protecting the safety and well-being of students amid heightened political and social tensions.
Ultimately, the aftermath of the attack at UCLA serves as a reminder of the challenges universities face in promoting dialogue and understanding in the face of divisive and polarizing issues. It also underscores the importance of fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their political beliefs or affiliations.