Authorities report that a group of anti-Israeli demonstrators took over a building at the University of Washington (UW) in Seattle, leading to the arrest of at least 30 individuals.
The protesters occupied engineering buildings for several hours, calling for the university to be divested from Boeing, a major aerospace and defense contractor with longstanding ties to UW. Footage from the protests depicts demonstrators setting fires to trash bins as police intervened to regain control.
It’s alarming. One protester was heard shouting, “We’re going to abolish the police. All officers are dead, a victory of resistance.” UW officials noted that the protest created “dangerous environments” both inside and outside the building.
Masked protesters also blocked access to two streets and ignited fires using trash outside the building, according to the university’s statements. UW police, in coordination with local authorities, began managing the situation around 10:30 PM, moving to clear the area outside the building before acting to remove protesters inside shortly after.
About 30 individuals were arrested on charges of trespassing, destruction of property, disorderly conduct, and conspiracy connected to those offenses.
In a statement, UW emphasized its commitment to providing a safe educational environment, condemning the illegal occupation and any anti-Semitic statements issued by suspended students. The students, primarily linked to the Palestinian Equality & Return group, argued that the university’s association with Boeing implicated it in supporting Palestinian harm. They had highlighted Boeing’s $10 million funding for the building.
On social media, the group claimed, “The University of Washington is a direct partner in the Palestinian genocide through its loyalty to its partnership with Boeing.” They encouraged fellow protestors to hide their identities with masks.
The protesters accused Boeing of engineering weapons of mass destruction and declared, “Our education refuses to be a participant while businesses are directly funded and controlled by companies that lead to the genocide of Palestinians.” They argued that resources from UW, including campuses and student labor, facilitate the creation of destructive weapons.
After seizing the building, the protesters unfurled a banner renaming it “Shaban Al-Daroo Building,” in memory of a 19-year-old Palestinian who lost his life during an Israeli strike on Al-Aqsa Hospital, which Israel contended targeted Hamas operatives.
