Gaza anti-war protesters break down fence at US Democratic convention

On the first day of the Democratic National Convention, thousands of people marched near the United Center, where the convention was held, to protest the US administration's support for Israel's war in Gaza.

A small group of about 100 protesters broke away from the crowd and targeted the metal barriers surrounding the United Center. Police prevented them from reaching the inner fence.

Protesters wave Palestinian flags during a demonstration demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, August 18. Photo: AFP

Chicago police said protesters breached a section of the perimeter fence outside the Democratic National Convention. “Law enforcement responded immediately to the scene and took control of the situation. The interior area was not breached and there was no threat to any protected persons,” police said.

Police then moved into the park near the convention center to disperse the protesters. However, chants of "liberate Palestine" and "let's march together" continued.

In his hour-long speech to the convention, President Joe Biden did not directly address the security breach, but he said “the protesters in the streets have a point. A lot of innocent people are being killed, on both sides” in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Mr Biden said his administration would continue to work to “bring peace and security to the Middle East”.

The war in Gaza is a deeply divisive issue within the Democratic Party ahead of the US presidential election on November 5.

The issue could alienate Muslim and Arab-American voters, who have traditionally been reliable Democratic voting blocs, especially in key battleground states.

Hoai Phuong (according to AFP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nguoi-dan-bieu-tinh-phan-chien-gaza-tai-dai-hoi-dang-dan-chu-my-post308492.html