In a pre-dawn operation on Thursday morning, Chicago police cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment at DePaul University's Lincoln Park campus. The encampment, which had been in place since April 30, was the last remaining protest site in the Chicago area and the longest-standing in the country.

The clearance operation followed an impasse reached between school officials and the protesters. Last week, a similar encampment at the University of Chicago was also dismantled after an eight-day demonstration.

Crews from the university worked diligently to remove tents, flags, and other equipment, while police officers were no longer wearing riot gear. Demonstrators peacefully left the encampment, with a nearby rally held in solidarity.

Protesters held signs with powerful messages, such as "You can't pray for 'both sides' while arming one," "Divest from genocide," and "Jews against genocide."

During a news conference, Chicago Police Patrol Chief Jon Hein clarified that the police assisted in the removal of the encampment at the university's request. Hein asserted that all individuals voluntarily left the area when asked to disperse, denying reports of any confrontations or forced removals.

However, there were two arrests made outside the encampment for obstructing traffic. Both individuals were taken into custody and later released by the police. One of those arrested was a Muslim woman whose hijab was torn off during the arrest, and the other was a DePaul student who was pulled to the ground by his helmet.

The protesters claimed they had not received any prior warning about the clearance operation, but rumors of police involvement had circulated. Students expressed frustration with the lack of communication from university officials, stating that they have not met with them since Saturday, despite proposing a meeting that went unanswered.

According to Simran Bains, a senior student organizer, the protests were not just about the encampment but also aimed to push for Palestinian rights and DePaul's divestment from Israeli supporters and forces. Bains emphasized that the challenges they faced during the clearance operation only represent a fraction of the hardships endured by Palestinians for decades.

The situation at DePaul University appeared peaceful after the clearance, with officers present to dismantle the remaining parts of the encampment. Across the street, approximately 100 protesters stood, chanting slogans such as "Free Palestine" and calling out DePaul University President Robert Manuel for allegedly funding genocide.

President Manuel released a statement urging everyone in the encampment to leave peacefully and return home. He expressed disappointment over the failure to find a shared resolution with the DePaul Divestment Coalition and announced the immediate closure of the quad and other green spaces on the Lincoln Park Campus for repairs.

The closure will continue until further notice, with anyone attempting to breach the fenced areas subject to trespassing, arrest, and suspension.

As the encampment is dismantled and tensions persist, the passion and determination of the protesters remain steadfast. Their goal of advocating for Palestinian rights and holding institutions accountable continues to fuel their fight for justice.