Hundreds of anti-Israel protesters disrupted President Biden’s Los Angeles fundraiser, where he was expected to raise a record-setting $28 million. The demonstrators attempted to block the entrance to the Peacock Theater in downtown LA, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans such as “From the sea to the river, Palestine will live forever.” Some wore shirts demanding a cease-fire and expressed their discontent with Biden’s policies regarding the conflict in the Middle East.
Despite the protesters’ efforts, guests were still able to enter the fundraiser, which was attended by prominent figures like President Barack Obama, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, and others. The crowd outside the theater swelled as more guests arrived for the event. Dozens of police officers in riot gear formed a line to maintain order and prevent the protesters from disrupting the evening. However, no arrests were reported, and the fundraiser continued as planned.
President Biden aimed to raise a total of $28 million during the event, with tickets ranging from $250 to $500,000. Attendees who paid the highest prices received front-row seats, the opportunity for a photo with both presidents, and an invitation to an after-party. The fundraiser was set to surpass Biden’s previous record for a single night, which was $25 million raised during a March event with Obama and former President Bill Clinton at Radio City Music Hall.
The protest highlighted the ongoing tensions and disagreements surrounding US policy towards Israel and Palestine. Demonstrators voiced their opposition to Biden’s actions in the region, calling for a cease-fire and expressing their dissatisfaction with the current situation. The presence of high-profile figures at the fundraiser added to the controversy, with some interpreting their attendance as a statement of support for Biden’s policies.
The clash between protesters and attendees at the fundraiser underscored the deep divisions within American society regarding foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East. While some saw the event as an opportunity to show solidarity with Israel, others viewed it as a chance to hold Biden accountable for his handling of the conflict. The demonstration also raised questions about the role of celebrities and politicians in shaping public opinion and influencing decision-making at the highest levels of government.
Ultimately, President Biden’s fundraiser in Los Angeles became a focal point for debate and disagreement over US-Israel relations and the broader Middle East conflict. The presence of protesters outside the event highlighted the complex and deeply entrenched nature of these issues, as well as the challenges of navigating a path towards peace and reconciliation in the region. The fundraiser’s record-breaking success further underscored the significance of these debates and the high stakes involved in shaping US foreign policy in the years to come.
