Protesters demonstrating against Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza have caused disruption at California State University, Los Angeles. The incident occurred when demonstrators occupied and vandalized a building on campus, prompting the university president to take action.
The takeover of the multistory Student Services Building began at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, with university President and other employees trapped inside. While most employees managed to exit the building by 6 p.m., a group of administrators, including the president, remained until after midnight to handle the situation.
Following the incident, the university announced that all main campus classes and operations would be conducted remotely until further notice. The president of the university expressed disappointment and anger over the destruction and theft that took place during the protest.
Although there were no arrests or injuries reported, several employees and a student allegedly experienced assaults during the demonstration. The university president emphasized that those responsible for the illegal activities would be held accountable.
Images from the scene revealed graffiti on the building, furniture blocking doorways, and overturned golf carts and picnic tables barricading the plaza. The university spokesperson confirmed significant damage to the building's exterior, interior, equipment, and structure.
The CSULA Gaza Solidarity Encampment, a group that had been camping near the campus gym for approximately 40 days, was identified as the source of the protest. The encampment members staged a sit-in inside the building, leading to the disruptive events that unfolded.
In response to the incident, the university president declared that protesters involved in the illegal activities must vacate the campus. While expressing a commitment to dialogue with peaceful demonstrators, she made it clear that violent actions would not be tolerated in the future.
