Evanston protest today: Pro-Palestinian demonstrators block street, demand end to attacks on Gaza

EVANSTON, Ill. (WLS) -- Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked part of a street in the northern suburbs on Tuesday afternoon, demanding an end to Israel's attacks on Gaza.

Chopper 7 was over the scene in Evanston on Ridge Avenue around 4:45 p.m. The group was gathered in the street there, holding a sign and wearing bright-colored vests.

The demonstrators called on U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky to demand that Israel stop its bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

The protest, who took place near Schakowsky's home, eventually ended, and no one was arrested.

Schakowsky issued a statement, saying:

"As I have stated before, I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, a major influx of humanitarian aid to the civilians in Gaza, coupled with the safe and swift return of all hostages taken by Hamas.

"I respect the rights of the protestors at my home. Just today, I was on the House floor defending their first amendment right to protest, the right of Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib to express her views, and the freedom of speech of all Americans in our democracy.

"As a Jewish American, this is extremely personal for me. I have always supported the existence of a Jewish and democratic state of Israel and believe Israel has a right to defend itself and its citizens, but at the same time, I have always adamantly supported justice for Palestinians, an end to the occupation, and a two-state solution guaranteeing the rights of all."