LOS ANGELES - Authorities declared an unlawful assembly Wednesday morning after chaos ensued when a group of pro-Palestine protesters blocked traffic outside the entrance of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The protest took place on Wednesday morning, which coincided with one of the busiest travel days of the year.

The demonstration caused heavy traffic along Century Boulevard, leading LA Airport Police to recommend alternate routes such as Sepulveda Blvd, Arbor Vitae Street, and Airport Way for those needing to access the airport area. The situation escalated when the group attempted to block the roadway with cement blocks and other objects, and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) intervened around 9:30 a.m.

As the LAPD moved in, the protesters dispersed in different directions, while some were apprehended. By 10:10 a.m., approximately 15 protesters had been detained. Signs carried by the demonstrators displayed messages advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza and the freedom of Palestine.

Despite the disruption caused by the protest, determined passengers were observed abandoning their vehicles and walking to the airport with their luggage to ensure they made their flights on time.

This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in Los Angeles. On December 13, a similar demonstration took place on the 110 Freeway, with protesters demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, resulting in traffic disruption.

In a coordinated effort, similar protests were also reported in New York City on Wednesday morning. These demonstrations aimed to disrupt travel during one of the busiest periods of the year.

Fortunately, no flights were impacted by the protest at LAX, according to airport officials. By 10:30 a.m., the protest had been cleared, and the remaining protesters were taken into custody at the intersection of Manchester Avenue and Sepulveda Blvd. Some protesters received citations and were released for rioting, while others were arrested for assaulting a peace officer.

The clash between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and law enforcement highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, with protests spreading to major cities across the United States. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how authorities will navigate these protests while ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved.