Lake Shore Drive protest today: Pro-Palestinian demonstrators block downtown Chicago traffic

CHICAGO (WLS) — This is the 10th time since the war began overseas that Palestinian supporters have gathered to call for a ceasefire in Gaza, according to organizers.

Once again, they took their demands to the streets.

The protest began at 1 p.m. at Buckingham Fountain before spilling out to the streets.

Traffic on DuSable Lake Shore Drive was blocked in both directions as thousands of demonstrators gathered at Jackson Drive in the Loop amid the war.

The group walked out onto the drive, and then moved onto Jackson Drive, heading toward Columbus.

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Chicago police were trying to control the crowds while also rerouting traffic.

The majority of protesters eventually ended up back at Buckingham Fountain, but some lingered on DuSable Lake Shore Drive around 4:45 p.m. Traffic began to flow again just after 5 p.m., and DuSable Lake Shore Drive fully reopened by 5:30 p.m.

The protest, at one point, turned violent. There was a conflict between some pro-Palestinian supporters and police officers near Buckingham Fountain.

There’s no word if anyone was hurt or has been arrested.

Organizers say they will continue to protest until a ceasefire is called in Gaza.

This is a developing story. Check back with ABC7 for updates.