In a dramatic turn of events, scuffles broke out between police and protesters at the University of Southern California (USC) on Wednesday morning. The clash occurred as demonstrators voiced their opposition to the ongoing war in Gaza and Israel's response to recent attacks by Hamas.

Eyewitness accounts from activist group People City's Council - Los Angeles described a chaotic scene, with police allegedly "raiding encampments" and making violent arrests. A video shared on social media by Angie Orellana Hernandez captured an officer brandishing a baton after the police reportedly touched a USC student. Another video showed protesters blocking a police vehicle in an effort to prevent the removal of a student they believed was wrongfully detained.

Earlier in the day, the protest started with a smaller group of 15-20 individuals visible from Sky5 aerial footage. However, as the day progressed, the number of protesters in the vicinity of Alumni Park swelled to potentially reach hundreds. Amidst the growing crowd, pushing and shoving incidents occurred.

USC Public Safety Assistant Chief David Carlisle, in an interview with KTLA, clarified that students had the right to protest, but camping on campus property was prohibited. As a result, police confiscated tents set up by the demonstrators. However, footage captured just before noon revealed that several tents were still standing, as protesters attempted to evade the officers by moving in circles while carrying their tents.

These heightened tensions occurred just days after USC made the decision to cancel valedictorian Asna Tabassum's commencement speech due to safety concerns. The cancellation had stirred controversy and garnered attention from students and the public alike.

The clash between police and protesters at USC serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza and the differing opinions held by protesters. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how both parties involved will navigate the delicate balance between freedom of expression and maintaining order on campus.