President Biden strongly criticized a pro-Palestinian protest that occurred outside a synagogue in Los Angeles, calling it antisemitic. The clash between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrators turned violent over the weekend, causing concern among leaders who deemed such protests outside houses of worship unacceptable.
The incident took place outside the Adas Torah synagogue in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles. Video footage shared on social media depicted physical altercations, punches being thrown, and individuals chasing each other down the street. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to calls about the confrontations, resulting in two reports of battery. One person was arrested for possessing a spiked post at the protest.
President Biden, Governor Gavin Newsom of California, and Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles all condemned the protesters for targeting a synagogue. President Biden emphasized that while peaceful protests are a right, blocking access to a house of worship and engaging in violence is never acceptable. Mayor Bass vowed to hold those responsible for antisemitism and violence in the community accountable.
In response to the incident, Mayor Bass announced plans to meet with Chief Dominic Choi of the Los Angeles Police Department and increase patrols in the neighborhood and around religious institutions. She also intended to convene a community meeting with faith leaders, law enforcement officials, and other stakeholders to address the situation.
Governor Newsom echoed the sentiment, denouncing the violent clashes outside the synagogue as unacceptable and emphasizing that antisemitic hatred has no place in California. The incident garnered condemnation from various state and local leaders, highlighting the need to combat hatred and violence targeting religious institutions.
As tensions persist between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups, the authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of all residents, regardless of their religious beliefs. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding peaceful demonstrations and respecting places of worship as sacred spaces free from violence and intimidation.