Police, protesters clash outside Israeli consulate in Chicago

Clashes erupted between police and protesters outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago, leading to the arrest of several pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

The confrontation occurred less than two miles from where the Democratic National Convention was taking place, where Kamala Harris was being nominated for president, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Protesters, some wearing keffiyehs and burning Israeli flags, were met by police in riot gear. Counter-protesters waving Israeli flags also joined the scene, leading to scuffles near the city's central business district. The police declared the gathering illegal and made arrests, though the exact number was not immediately available.

Chicago had anticipated protests since it was chosen to host the convention almost a year ago. In preparation, approximately 2,500 officers received 40 hours of training, and city officials pledged to respect the protesters' civil rights.

The demonstrators were voicing opposition to President Joe Biden's support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which has faced international criticism for its conduct in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The ongoing war has resulted in over 40,000 deaths in Gaza.

Protests leading up to August 20 included marches on August 18-19, with more planned during the convention. City officials are eager to avoid a repeat of the 1968 Democratic convention, where police violence against anti-Vietnam War protesters drew widespread criticism.

Chicago has a history of police misconduct, leading to a court-mandated consent decree five years ago aimed at improving practices. A recent inspector general’s report expressed doubts about the city’s readiness for large-scale demonstrations.

The protest was organized by the leftist group Behind Enemy Lines, which called for disrupting the convention to draw attention to the situation in Gaza, criticizing President Biden and Kamala Harris for their support of Israel.