A protest in downtown Boston took a violent turn Tuesday night, leading to a chaotic scene and multiple arrests after what began as a pro-Palestinian demonstration spiraled into a confrontation with police.

According to the Boston Police Department, between 200 and 300 individuals initially gathered for what was planned as a political protest organized by Students for Justice in Palestine. The demonstration was timed to coincide with the two-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.

But as the night went on, tensions escalated.

Police say the situation shifted from peaceful to aggressive as a group within the crowd blocked a key downtown intersection and refused orders to clear the way for emergency vehicles. When officers attempted to move demonstrators to the sidewalk, some individuals allegedly surrounded police cruisers, kicked vehicle doors, and resisted efforts to disperse the group.

The Boston Police Department reported that several officers were assaulted, including one who was struck in the face. The department also said that smoke devices and flares were set off during the clash, creating additional danger for both officers and bystanders.

Boston (Oct. 7) — Pro-Palestine rioters gathered for a direct action to celebrate the anniversary of the terrorist attacks in Israel. pic.twitter.com/pF0oKGmM9t

— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) October 8, 2025

In a statement issued late Tuesday, police said, “As violence escalated, additional resources were deployed. Officers reported property damage and the forcible removal of essential equipment, including body-worn cameras, radios, bicycles, and other duty gear.”

Boston (Oct. 4) — Rioters took over a street at the South End and then violently attacked responding police, setting the vehicle on fire. Only two people out of the mob were arrested. pic.twitter.com/4hVcnJLuZy

— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) October 5, 2025

Thirteen individuals were arrested during the incident and now face charges including unlawful assembly, violent resistance, and obstruction of emergency response.

The names and ages of those arrested were released by police, and range from 19 to 28 years old. Those charged include Osama Khatib, 26, and Laith Hintzman, 19, among others.

Witnesses described the scene as loud and aggressive, with some protestors shouting profanities at law enforcement and comparing the Boston Police Department to hate groups. According to Boston.com, chants like “F— you, Nazis” and “BPD is KKK” echoed through the streets as demonstrators refused to clear the area.

The protest’s original goal, according to organizers, was to “flood downtown for Palestine.” But as the demonstration spiraled out of control, it drew a heavier police response and raised questions about where the line between free speech and public safety should be drawn.

Thirteen people were arrested Tuesday night in connection with a pro-Palestinian protest that turned violent on the Boston Common and left four police officers injured, including some with broken bones, according to officials. https://t.co/t804qCOGYT

— Boston Herald (@bostonherald) October 8, 2025

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu released a statement late Tuesday condemning the violence and voicing support for law enforcement.

“We are extremely grateful for the work of the Boston Police in keeping the city safe and in supporting the right to peacefully protest,” Wu said. “Boston will not tolerate violence, and we categorically condemn those who came into our community to attack our police officers. The individuals who engaged in these attacks must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Even after the protest ended, the tension carried over into Wednesday, as demonstrators gathered once again—this time outside the courthouse, where arraignments were held for those arrested the night before.

It’s not clear whether additional charges may be filed or whether more arrests are expected. Boston police say the incident remains under review and more information may be released as the investigation continues.