Anti-Israel protesters caused chaos at the University of California, Irvine, leading to a swift response from local law enforcement agencies. The incident unfolded when hundreds of protesters entered the Physical Sciences Lecture Hall on campus and began barricading the building. The university promptly called for assistance from the Irvine Police Department and Orange County Sheriff's Department.
Footage showed protesters clashing with police, resulting in at least one arrest. The protesters, chanting slogans in support of Palestine, had joined an encampment that had been occupying the campus since April 29.
Students were instructed to leave the area for their safety as the protest escalated. Classes were canceled for the remainder of the day, and the situation was being closely monitored by UC Irvine officials.
UC Irvine student Senator Beto Mendez reported that police were gradually clearing out some encampments, noting the presence of non-student protesters, including children. Mendez expressed shock at the protests occurring on campus and commended the school administration for handling the situation cautiously.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, any violence or vandalism would not be tolerated. Spitzer assured that law enforcement would investigate any criminal activity, including failure to disperse when ordered.
