The Los Angeles Police Department announced that no arrests were made when it evacuated a camp of pro-Palestinian protesters at the University of Southern California on Sunday, following arrests and disturbances at universities across the United States due to the Gaza war. Other universities, which held graduation ceremonies, prepared for further protests after police arrested dozens.
The police stated that after the University of Southern California requested assistance, forces raided the camp at approximately 5 a.m. local time (12:00 GMT) and began removing tents, while students left the area quietly.
Campus protests have emerged as a new political flashpoint this year as the U.S. presidential election approaches. Police have arrested over 2,000 protesters across various colleges in the United States.
Mitch Landrieu, co-chair of President Joe Biden's re-election campaign, stated on Sunday that Senator Bernie Sanders' comments, comparing campus protests to demonstrations during the Vietnam War, were "exaggerated." He added to CNN, "This is a completely different situation. However, that doesn’t mean these protests aren't incredibly serious."
Several universities, including Columbia University in New York City, have called in police to suppress protests. Students and other protesters are urging universities to sever financial ties with Israel and push for a ceasefire.
Last month, Los Angeles police arrested 93 people at the University of Southern California after another camp was evacuated. The police reported that a Jewish synagogue in New York received at least four bomb threats earlier this week, but none were found to be credible.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote on platform X late Saturday, stating, "We will not tolerate individuals who sow fear and anti-Semitism. Those responsible for their vile actions must be held accountable."
