LAPD beefs up security at Oscars in preparation for anti-Israel protests

Los Angeles police were preparing Sunday for anti-Israel protesters to try to disrupt Tinsletown’s biggest night, the Oscars.

Officials said they were increasing security outside the Academy Awards to “prevent disruptions by demonstrators, ensuring a focus on the celebration of cinematic achievements.”

The Oscars also said it would have 2,000 security officers on hand at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, the site of the 96th annual Oscars, The Los Angeles Times reported.

The city’s police department said it will allow protesters to voice their First Amendment rights without disrupting the proceedings, according to the outlet.

The area surrounding the venue has been blocked off with chainlink fencing ahead of the star-studded ceremony to avoid a repeat of the Grammy Awards last month – when arrivals were brought to a halt by anti-Israel supporters blocking traffic in front of the Crypto.com Arena.

The Academy Awards’ goal is to support and celebrate artists and avoid politics and the political landscape, sources said. Organizers will not attempt to censor winners’ speeches, they said.

Large crowds of protesters have disrupted major recent events worldwide, including in Los Angeles, since Israel waged war on Hamas after the Palestinian terror group’s Oct. 7 deadly attack on the Jewish nation.

Most recently, California US Rep. Adam Schiff’s primary victory speech last week was interrupted by protesters demanding a cease-fire in Gaza — which has also been called for by a long list of movie stars and executives, including Oscar nominees Bradley Cooper and Mark Ruffalo.