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This step comes after a series of Pro-Palestinian protestersPalestinian protesters, who were protesting U.S. support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, broke away from a larger march and breached a security fence near the United Center. The protesters, who waved Palestinian flags and chanted slogans against the Biden administration, prompted a swift police response, CNN reported.
Chicago Police Chief Larry Snelling said that while some officers were hit with water bottles and pepper spray, there were no serious injuries. He praised the officers’ restraint and said 13 people were arrested, including 10 for breaching the fence. Charges included criminal trespass and aggravated assault on police officers.
Snelling noted that the breach did not threaten the internal perimeter of the Democratic National Convention site, and asserted that there was no risk to protected persons. The Joint Public Safety Information Center echoed that sentiment, asserting that the internal perimeter remained secure.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, speaking from the convention floor, assured CNN that authorities had a robust security plan in place and described the fence breach as a brief incident. He stressed the importance of respecting protest rights while maintaining order.
The pro-Palestinian demonstration was among several planned demonstrations related to the conflict between Israel and Hamas during the four-day conference. In response, authorities implemented extensive security measures around the United Center, which also caused significant delays to bus services due to disruptions related to the protests.
While Democratic speakers generally avoided discussing the conflict between Israel and Hamas, President Joe Biden acknowledged the protests, acknowledged the concerns raised by demonstrators and stressed efforts to achieve a ceasefire.
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