Violent clashes erupted outside a screening of a film facilitated by actress Gal Gadot, which depicted the October 7 surprise attack on southern Israel by Hamas militants.
The incident, which was captured on video and shared on social media, took place outside the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles. The footage showed groups fighting, exchanging punches, and using pepper spray.
The screening's location was shared online in advance, resulting in heightened security measures, including an FBI advance team and a heavy police presence. Video footage shared online showed protesters and counter-protesters gathering outside the venue, with Israel supporters on one side and pro-Palestinian activists on the other.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the violence and called for unity. Throughout the conflict in the Middle East, Gadot has shown support for the people of Israel on social media and has raised awareness about the hostages taken by Hamas.
The screening was organized to shed light on the ongoing conflict and was supported by Gadot and her husband, Yaron Varsano, although Gadot was not in attendance. Representatives for Gadot, the LAPD, and video artist Helen Katz were not immediately available for comment.