At least four people were arrested near the Israeli consulate, across town from where Democrats were hearing from the former President and first lady.
Pro-Palestinian protests in Chicago began calmly Tuesday evening, but police soon had to step in to make arrests as some became violent.
Hundreds gathered outside Chicago’s Israeli consulate as speeches got underway at the second day of the Democratic National Convention across town, about two miles away.
The main demand of the protest movement has been for the U.S. to withdraw its support for Israel in its war in Gaza, with a focus on President Biden and Vice President Harris’ administration providing funding and arms.
“Shut down the DNC” became a rallying call for protesters as they gathered outside the consulate and moved through the streets of the city’s downtown.
At one point, a small group set fire to an Israeli-American mixed flag, before an American flag was placed on top. A nearby reporter then tried to stop the second flag burning.
Chicago Police Department officers in riot gear called for protesters and the media to get out of the street at some points during the evening, while some cops stood in rows to keep attendees in place.
The Associated Press reported that at least four people were arrested, with shouts of “let them go!” coming from the protesters.
