Investigative Group

‘Anything But Peaceful’: Dozens Arrested After Anti-Israel Protesters Riot During Second Night Of DNC

Anti-Israel demonstrators riot on second night of DNC (Daily Caller News Foundation)

CHICAGO — Police arrested numerous pro-Palestinian protesters Tuesday night outside of the Israel consulate in Chicago as the un-sanctioned demonstration turned chaotic.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in front of the Israel consulate in Chicago on the second night of the Democratic National Convention, voicing their opposition to Israel’s war with Hamas. The Daily Caller News Foundation was on the scene as rioters clashed with the Chicago Police Department, resulting in numerous arrests and other clashes with pro-Israel counter-protesters.

The National Lawyers Guild Chicago claims at least 72 individuals were arrested Tuesday night and taken to the 19th Police District, according to ABC7.

Someone in media got arrested? @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/KAomH7wDTX

— Jason Hopkins (@jasonhopkinsdc) August 21, 2024

The Chicago Police Department attempted to keep the protest, which did not have a permit to demonstrate, contained with hundreds of cops armed with shields, batons and other riot gear, separating them from pro-Israel counter protesters who arrived on scene later on.

Media were also ordered to separate from the demonstration.

Things getting heated @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/NJsW8j3MRN

— Jason Hopkins (@jasonhopkinsdc) August 21, 2024

However, pro-Palestinian demonstrators marched onward and many were able to break through police lines. They openly clashed with police who were ordering them to maintain order.

Protesters appear to have made an abrupt turn in their march to avoid riot control @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/bDZCRQYtEB

— Jason Hopkins (@jasonhopkinsdc) August 21, 2024

“We are appalled to see violence during the protest in front of our offices,” the Consulate General of Israel said in a statement following the riot, ABC7 reported. “This is anything but peaceful and completely contradictory to the spirit of the DNC.”

“This vocal minority does not represent the vast bipartisan majority of Americans who stand strong in support of Israel,” the consulate statement continued. “It was incredibly heartwarming to see many Americans countering this hate in front of our office, echoing the strong bond between America and Israel.

DCNF Image/Jason Hopkins

The demonstration on Tuesday marked the second day of rioting in as many days for the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Many protesters on Monday broke through a barricade in an attempt to get closer to the United Center, where the DNC is taking place.

Israel counterprotest. DCNF image/Jason Hopkins

Protesters in Chicago who oppose Israel’s war against Hamas have been voicing their disgust with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, with many signs accusing the two of being complicit in “genocide.”

More protests are expected this week as the DNC continues.