In a tumultuous turn of events at Portland State University, seven police officers were injured and at least 30 individuals were arrested following the occupation of the campus library by anti-Israel agitators. The incident unfolded on Thursday when the agitators illegally entered Millar Library for a second time, defying authorities' attempts to maintain security.

The operation to clear the library began at 6 a.m. as Portland police officers established a perimeter and urged the occupiers to vacate the premises. Despite repeated warnings, as well as numerous announcements, the agitators refused to comply. Subsequently, the police initiated a deliberate and methodical clearing operation, starting on the top floor.

Upon reaching the top floor, officers encountered barricades, vandalism, and items strategically placed, potentially for assault purposes. Remarkably, the agitators did not offer any resistance during this phase. However, when the police reached the first floor, they faced a heavily barricaded door that required significant force to open. Upon gaining entry, they discovered the floors covered in paint, soap, or some other slippery substance.

During the course of the operation, four individuals were arrested. One of them deployed a fire extinguisher at an officer, while another attempted to strike an officer with an improvised shield. The remaining occupiers fled the area upon repeated warnings about potential trespassing charges. As the arrested individuals were being transferred into a transport van, a hostile crowd surrounded it, necessitating the assistance of the Oregon State Police Mobile Response Team to safely leave the area. The crowd followed, with some even entering the Interstate 405 freeway, resulting in additional arrests.

The police clarified that only pepper spray was deployed, despite some officers carrying less-lethal launchers. These tools are standard issue for patrol officers trained and qualified in their use. The department emphasized that no munitions were deployed during the operation.

After the library was initially cleared and secured with plywood and fencing, the agitators tore down the barriers and re-entered the building, prompting the return of law enforcement officials to the campus. Seven more individuals were subsequently arrested by Portland police, while one person was apprehended by PSU Campus Safety.

Portland police stressed that although arrests were not made on-site, individuals involved in the incident can still face charges. The cases will be forwarded to the Multnomah County District Attorney for prosecution.

By the end of the operation, seven police officers had sustained injuries, with one officer requiring transport to the hospital due to a knee injury. The remaining six officers either sustained minor injuries or were still being assessed at the time of the statement's release on Friday morning.

The incident at Portland State University serves as a poignant reminder of the mounting tensions and clashes that occur during protests and demonstrations. The university and law enforcement authorities continue to work towards maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all individuals on campus.