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Media executive Jay Sures has strongly condemned a group of anti-Israel protesters who vandalized his Brentwood, California home and surrounded his wife’s vehicle, describing the incident as terrifying for his family.
As the vice chair of United Talent Agency and a member of the University of California (UC) Board of Regents, Sures recounted the alarming event to Fox News Digital. He stated that dozens of demonstrators invaded the front of his residence, decorating it with red handprints and displaying banners that contained threats.
The Disturbing Encounter
On Wednesday morning, Sures’ wife became encircled by a group of protesters when she attempted to leave their home in her car. “When my wife tried to leave our house, they surrounded her car for 15 minutes. She was absolutely terrified,” he said. Sures has been a prominent advocate for Israel and played a significant role in UC’s ban on political statements on departmental websites.
Protesters’ Actions and Messages
Masked protesters reportedly gathered at approximately 6:15 a.m., banging drums and displaying a banner that read, “Jonathan Sures, you will pay until you see your final day.” They draped yellow caution tape around the front garden and affixed various posters featuring Sures’ image to the garage doors. Some posters demanded, “Diverse now, or you will pay,” while others declared, “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest.” This phrase reflects the ongoing movement urging institutions to disengage from dealings with Israel.
Rising Tensions and Antisemitism
Sures expressed disappointment that his family became targets of this hateful and antisemitic group. “I am confident that the LAPD and UCLA will find and prosecute those responsible for the vandalism and death threats,” he stated. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the individuals who prevented his wife’s free movement during the protest.
Speaking to Deadline, Sures indicated that this event marked the first time activists protested at his home and criticized their actions as crossing a line. “It’s one thing to peacefully protest, but to violate the hundred-foot rule in Los Angeles and disturb the neighborhood by pounding on drums is unacceptable,” he said.
Ongoing Challenges Faced by Sures
Since joining the Board of Regents in 2019, Sures has defended Jewish students and supported Israel. He believes his stance and public support made him a target for such protests. The LAPD and UCLA police were alerted to the situation, although no arrests were reported.
Protest Group’s Justification
The Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine at UCLA claimed responsibility for the protest. They accused Sures of attempting to silence faculty and students who spoke out against what they described as genocide in Gaza. They stated that their actions were necessary due to persistent suppression of pro-Palestine speech and expression on campus.
Context of Campus Dynamics
Activists asserted that Sures led efforts to increase campus militarization and enforce strict policies affecting protests. In November 2023, Sures publicly criticized a faculty council that defended Hamas’ actions and demanded the UC administration stop labeling these actions as terrorism.
Furthermore, in a letter, a faculty council called upon university leadership to retract accusations of terrorism, to support the Palestinian freedom struggle, and to oppose Israel’s military actions. These statements continue to fuel discord between opposing factions within the university community.
University’s Response to the Incident
University officials have rebuked the protest. Stett Holbrook, a spokesperson for the university’s president, stated, “The private residence of UC Regent Jay Sures was vandalized, and his family and neighbors were harassed.” Holbrook emphasized the university’s commitment to freedom of speech while condemning harassment against community members.
A Call for Respect and Peace
The incident highlights the growing tensions surrounding campus activism and the challenges faced by individuals who express support for Israel. As discourse around these issues continues, it is crucial for all parties involved to respect legal boundaries and engage in constructive dialogue without resorting to intimidation or violence.
