CNN Reporter Cuts USC Anti-Israel Protest Report Early While Surrounded by Boos: It’s Getting ‘Nasty’

A CNN reporter interrupted his live reporting on Wednesday after being surrounded by anti-Israel protesters at the University of Southern California (USC).

During a trip to Los Angeles, CNN national correspondent Nick Watt admitted that the atmosphere was becoming “nasty” and said people in the crowd were trying to “intimidate” his news team.

Watt attempted to continue his report while a protester filmed him and interrupted the shot.

“Show your face,” Watt told the individual who was covering his face. “Show your face. Show your face. Why are you afraid to show your face?”

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Watt then resumed his report, saying USC invited the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) to campus as the temperature of the protests rose. Police told protesters they had 10 minutes to disperse. Some chose not to and began to link arms. They were soon arrested.

The CNN reporter seemed nervous when protesters in the background began shouting and one person attempted to wave a Palestinian flag in front of the camera.

“Anyway, I think we should probably leave because it’s getting a little nasty in here,” Watt said. “Over 50 people arrested. You know, let’s get back to you, we have to go.”

The camera then returned to the studio, where CNN anchor Laura Coates said she could hear the commotion and urged Watt to stay safe.

USC announced that its campus will remain closed “until further notice” following Wednesday’s large anti-Israel protest.

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A man is detained as USC security officers attempt to disperse students protesting in support of Palestinians at the University of Southern California Alumni Park. (REUTERS/Zaydee Sánchez)

After hours of clashes with campus police and Los Angeles police, the protest ended with 93 people arrested for trespassing.

In a letter to the university community Wednesday afternoon, USC Chancellor Andrew Guzmán said that while the university supports student freedom of expression, there are guidelines that must be followed for it to take place. a manifestation.

“[Protester] “The actions have escalated to include acts of vandalism, defacement of campus buildings and structures, as well as physical confrontation that threatens the safety of our officers and the university community,” Guzmán wrote.

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He said the decision to close the campus doors to unauthorized visitors “until further notice” was made in an effort to “restrict the growth of the protest and maintain calm on the rest of the campus.” The closure does not affect students, staff, or others with proper USC identification.

Guzmán concluded the letter by reminding students that USC “rejects[s] speech that is hateful and that causes harm to others.”

USC did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Fox News’ Elizabeth Pritchett contributed to this report.