The move comes after a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators, who were protesting US support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, split from a larger march and breached a security fence near the United Center.The protesters, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against the Biden administration, prompted a swift police response, CNN reported.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling reported that while some officers were hit with water bottles and pepper spray, there were no major injuries. He praised the officers’ restraint and confirmed that thirteen individuals were arrested, including ten for breaching the fence. Charges included criminal trespass and aggravated battery of police officers.
Snelling noted that the breach did not threaten the inner perimeter of the DNC site, and he reassured that there was no danger to protectees. The Public Safety Joint Information Center echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the inner perimeter remained secure.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, commenting from the convention floor, assured CNN that authorities had a robust security plan and described the fence breach as a brief incident. He emphasized the importance of respecting protest rights while maintaining order.
The pro-Palestinian protest was among several planned demonstrations related to the Israel-Hamas conflict during the four-day convention. In response, authorities have implemented extensive security measures around the United Center, which also caused notable delays for shuttle bus services due to protest-related disruptions.
While Democratic speakers have generally avoided discussing the Israel-Hamas conflict, President Joe Biden acknowledged the protests, recognizing the concerns raised by demonstrators and reaffirming efforts to achieve a ceasefire.
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