Argentina Protests Result in 124 Arrests, 46 Injuries

On March 12, 2025, a protest in Buenos Aires initiated by retirees demanding improvements to their pensions escalated into violence, resulting in at least 124 arrests and 46 injuries, including 26 police officers. The demonstration, which drew support from football fans, aimed to oppose austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei since his inauguration in December 2023. Riot police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse the crowd, which included participants throwing stones and barricading streets. The unrest was exacerbated by a viral video showing police brutality against an elderly protester, fueling public outrage. Critics of the government's handling of the protest have condemned the aggressive tactics of law enforcement, while officials blamed a 'hooligan element' for the violence. As the situation unfolded, President Milei had yet to formally address the protests but had engaged with social media posts regarding the events.