Chicago: Pro-Palestine protesters briefly broke through the outer security fence at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago on Monday, just hours before President Joe Biden handed over the nomination to Kamala Harris.
During his speech, President Biden, 81, indirectly addressed the protesters, acknowledging their concerns by saying, “Those protesters out in the street, they have a point. A lot of innocent people are being killed, on both sides” of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The incident occurred when about 100 protesters split from a larger demonstration and targeted the metal barriers surrounding the United Center, where the Democratic Party’s gathering was taking place. Police in riot gear, including helmets, shields, and batons, quickly intervened, preventing the protesters from reaching the inner security zone. One protester, dressed in black, was seen being carried away by officers.
Protest groups have planned mass demonstrations throughout the week against the Biden-Harris administration’s support for Israel’s actions in Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7.
Chicago police confirmed that the protesters “breached a portion of anti-scale fencing along the Democratic National Convention’s outer perimeter.” However, they reassured that the situation was contained swiftly and that the inner perimeter remained secure, with no threat to anyone inside.
Later, police moved to clear a nearby park of demonstrators. Despite the intervention, chants of “Free Palestine” and “Let’s March” continued as a few remaining protesters, one wearing a pink gas mask, began to disperse.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has become a significant issue for the Democratic Party as it prepares for the November 5 election, potentially alienating Muslim and Arab-American voters, who have traditionally supported the party.
In his speech, Biden promised that his administration would continue working to “bring peace and security to the Middle East.” He emphasized efforts to prevent a wider war, reunite hostages with their families, and increase humanitarian aid to Gaza to alleviate civilian suffering. He also reiterated the administration’s commitment to achieving a ceasefire and ending the conflict.