Violence erupts as protesters clash outside West LA synagogue

null - Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called for increased security measures in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood after violence broke out between pro-Palestine and pro-Israel supporters Sunday. 

Officers responded to the Abas Torah synagogue in the 9000 block of Pico Boulevard just before 11 a.m., Los Angeles Police Department Officer Tony Im told City News Service. Responding officers were met with counter-demonstrators, some carrying Israeli flags.

Aerial views from SkyFOX showed large groups of people fist-fighting each other in the streets of the neighborhood as the violence escalated. Some are seen using the handles of protest signs as apparent weapons.

Police officers wearing riot gear were seen surrounding the perimeter. 

Mayor Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom have denounced the violence. 

"The violent clashes outside the Adas Torah synagogue in Los Angeles are appalling," Gov. Newsom wrote on social media. "There is no excuse for targeting a house of worship. Such antisemitic hatred has no place in California."

"I want to be clear that Los Angeles will not be a harbor for antisemitism and violence. Those responsible for either will be found and held accountable," Mayor Bass said in part in a released statement on social media.

SUGGESTED: 

• UCLA commencement ceremony held with no drama amid protest concerns, tension in Gaza
• Jewish students sue UCLA over pro-Palestinian encampment
• Pro-Palestine protests break out at Cal State LA
• 25 arrested after pro-Palestinian protesters return to UCLA

LAPD investigators said there were two reports of battery and one person was arrested.