Anti-Israel protests continue outside Israeli consulate in Chicago
Flag burned and arrests made as anti-Israel protests continue in Chicago
Anti-Israel protests persisted into the second night of the Democratic National Convention. Demonstrators burned an American flag and chanted “Free Palestine” outside a building in Chicago that houses the Israeli consulate. Police officers detained at least four individuals after protesters rushed a line of officers, who then pushed them back.
A small group of protesters, numbering a few dozen, chanted “Let them go!” as police contained them on the street, preventing further movement. Some in the crowd carried Palestinian flags, while many wore black and covered their faces. Numerous Chicago police officers were stationed outside the building, with most entrances closed off. Commuters were allowed entry through a single entrance, where armed officers were present.
These events coincided with the celebratory roll call for Kamala Harris inside the United Center, about two miles away. Earlier in the day, Israel supporters, including relatives of individuals kidnapped by Hamas, gathered at a pro-Israel art installation near the consulate. They urged U.S. leaders to maintain support for Israel and advocate for the release of hostages.
BREAKING: Pro-Israel counter-protesters marched around Union Park in Chicago, clashing with anti-Israel demonstrators who were protesting at The DNC.
Despite attempts by anti-Israel marshals to block their path, the pro-Israel group broke through. #DNC2024 pic.twitter.com/0PjBVbgZ8T
— Beats in Brief (@beatsinbrief) August 19, 2024
Additional protests are scheduled throughout the week. However, the main rally on Monday saw significantly lower attendance than the 20,000 predicted by organisers. Authorities reported that the inner security perimeter at the United Center remained secure, with no threats to convention attendees.
Other Perspective
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- CBS News reports on a protest outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago during the Democratic National Convention, impacting Metra riders and featuring arrests and demonstrations.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened during the anti-Israel demonstrations at the Democratic National Convention?
Protesters burned an American flag and chanted ‘Free Palestine’ outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago.
Were there any arrests during the anti-Israel protests?
Yes, at least four people were handcuffed and led away by officers.
Did the anti-Israel protesters carry any symbols or wear specific attire?
Some carried Palestinian flags, while many others wore black and covered their faces.
Was the security at the United Center breached during the protests?
No, the inner security perimeter surrounding the United Center was not breached.
How many people attended the main rally on Monday?
Attendance was far below the predicted 20,000 by organizers.
