The University of California Irvine advised students to leave the area and buildings near where pro-Palestinian protesters were holding a protest. In a statement, the university instructed anyone in the vicinity to exit buildings and vacate the area immediately. This came after an earlier statement advising students and faculty to shelter in place.
The university explained that protesters had taken over the Physical Sciences Lecture Hall, blocking the entrance and creating a barrier with tents. Video footage showed protesters chanting slogans in support of Palestine.
Authorities responded to the situation with around 100 police officers and sheriff’s deputies, ordering protesters to disperse and making arrests. Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan criticized the use of violence against peaceful protests.
Truth Voices attempted to contact the university for a statement but did not receive a response.
