Anti-Israel demonstrators burned the American flag and chanted "Free Palestine" outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago on the second night of the DNC, while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned antisemitism in his speech.
Anti-Israel demonstrators clashed with police and burned the American flag outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago on Tuesday night, casting a shadow over the ongoing Democratic National Convention (DNC) taking place nearby.
The protests erupted near the United Center, where the DNC roll call for vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris was being held inside. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., denounced antisemitism during his speech on the second night of the convention, even as anti-Israel agitators raged outside the arena.
Anti-Israel Protests Mar Democratic National Convention in Chicago
Schumer's speech primarily targeted former President Donald Trump as a source of anti-Jewish rhetoric in American politics. "As the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in American history, I want my grandkids — and all grandkids — to never face discrimination because of who they are," Schumer said.
While Schumer delivered his speech, pro-Hamas rioters were burning the American flag and chanting "Free Palestine" outside the United Center. The protesters opposed U.S. support for Israel and other progressive causes.
Anti-Israel Protests Mar Democratic National Convention in Chicago
On Wednesday, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling announced the arrests of at least 55 individuals who had gathered outside the consulate with intent to commit violence and vandalism. Snelling stated that the police had attempted to de-escalate the situation, but their efforts were hindered by the escalating aggression of the protesters.
Israel supporters, including relatives of people kidnapped by Hamas, gathered earlier in the day at a pro-Israel art installation near the consulate to call on U.S. leaders to continue supporting Israel and press for the release of hostages.
Anti-Israel Protests Mar Democratic National Convention in Chicago
More protests are planned throughout the week, but attendance at the main rally on Monday fell far below estimates of organizers, who had predicted a turnout of over 20,000.
The protests underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the divisions within the United States on this issue. While some Democratic leaders, including President Joe Biden, have expressed support for a two-state solution, others have been more critical of Israel's policies in the occupied territories.
Anti-Israel Protests Mar Democratic National Convention in Chicago
The DNC, which is being held in Chicago this week, has been a platform for both parties to address these issues and present their visions for the future of U.S. foreign policy.
