In the aftermath of a Saturday afternoon protest in San Francisco's downtown shopping district, four individuals, including three adults and one minor, were arrested. The demonstration, which took place at Union Square, attracted hundreds of participants and was centered around demands for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the dropping of charges against pro-Palestine protesters involved in the Bay Bridge shutdown last month.

According to reports from The Chronicle, the protest began at approximately 1:30 p.m., with demonstrators gathering outside the Market Street Westfield Mall. They soon moved onto the streets, blocking traffic as they marched towards Union Square. Chanting slogans such as "free Palestine" and "cease-fire now," the protesters surrounded the Christmas tree and ice skating rink in the square, brandishing signs with messages like "No Xmas as usual in a genocide" and "DA Jenkins drop all charges on the Bay Bridge 78."

Around 2 p.m., the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) arrived at the scene in response to reports of crimes being committed. The department stated that several individuals were engaging in acts of assault, felony vandalism, and causing property damage within Union Square. Consequently, SFPD proceeded to make arrests.

The identities of those arrested have not yet been made public. However, KRON4 revealed that two adult males, one adult female, and a minor were taken into custody. They are now facing a range of charges, including felony vandalism, resisting arrest, assault and battery on a police officer, and battery inflicting serious bodily injury.

This recent demonstration follows another protest that occurred on December 18, where approximately 200 people gathered at the SF Hall of Justice to express their opposition to DA Brook Jenkins' decision to charge 78 Bay Bridge Gaza protesters with multiple misdemeanors.

The incident at Union Square has drawn attention to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the impassioned voices advocating for peace and justice. As San Francisco contemplates these developments, the city is reminded of the complexities surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict and the urgent need for resolution.

(Image credit: Getty Images/pikappa)