Protesters turned Hong Kong into a tinderbox. But it’s the government that holds the matches

James Griffiths
Analysis by James Griffiths, CNN
Updated 11:32 PM EDT, Sun September 1, 2019
World News
HONG KONG, CHINA - AUGUST 31: A protesters walks in front of a burning barricade after clashing with police at an anti-government rally on August 31, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Pro-democracy protesters have continued rallies on the streets of Hong Kong against a controversial extradition bill since 9 June as the city plunged into crisis after waves of demonstrations and several violent clashes. Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam apologized for introducing the bill and declared it "dead", however protesters have continued to draw large crowds with demands for Lam's resignation and completely withdraw the bill. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
HONG KONG, CHINA - AUGUST 31: A protesters walks in front of a burning barricade after clashing with police at an anti-government rally on August 31, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Pro-democracy protesters have continued rallies on the streets of Hong Kong against a controversial extradition bill since 9 June as the city plunged into crisis after waves of demonstrations and several violent clashes. Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam apologized for introducing the bill and declared it "dead", however protesters have continued to draw large crowds with demands for Lam's resignation and completely withdraw the bill. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images
Now playing
02:21
Protesters are pointing lasers at government buildings
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson walks at Downing Street in London, Britain July 6, 2022. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson walks at Downing Street in London, Britain July 6, 2022. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls
Henry Nicholls/Reuters
Now playing
03:41
Boris Johnson promises to 'keep going' amid calls for resignation
AFP/Getty Images
Now playing
01:40
Nobilo: Key resignations deal blow to Boris Johnson
Reuters
Now playing
02:56
'Out of the frying pan and into the fire': Sri Lankan official describes deepening crisis
RAMLE, ISRAEL: (FILE PHOTO) Nazi war criminal Adolph Eichmann in his prison cell April 15, 1961 in Ramle, central Israel. The Israeli police donated Eichmann's original handprints, fingerprints and mugshot to Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial ahead of Israel's annual Holocaust remembrance day May 4, 2005 which this year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Nazi's World War II defeat in 1945. (Photo by John Milli/GPO via Getty Images)
RAMLE, ISRAEL: (FILE PHOTO) Nazi war criminal Adolph Eichmann in his prison cell April 15, 1961 in Ramle, central Israel. The Israeli police donated Eichmann's original handprints, fingerprints and mugshot to Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial ahead of Israel's annual Holocaust remembrance day May 4, 2005 which this year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Nazi's World War II defeat in 1945. (Photo by John Milli/GPO via Getty Images)
Getty Images/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Now playing
02:03
Unearthed tapes reveal Holocaust architect boast of Final Solution
CNN
Now playing
03:19
Video shows Russian artillery falling near CNN reporter
CNN
Now playing
02:28
Hungarian foreign minister on why the country is still buying Russian energy
CNN
Now playing
03:04
Three months in Russian captivity: How one Ukrainian got out
Now playing
03:46
Her traumatic pregnancy experience may become a reality for many Americans
ABC
Now playing
01:36
Video shows Sydney's streets submerged by floodwater
People react outside Field's shopping centre, after Danish police said they received reports of shooting, in Copenhagen, Denmark, July 3, 2022.
People react outside Field's shopping centre, after Danish police said they received reports of shooting, in Copenhagen, Denmark, July 3, 2022.
Ritzau Scanpix/Olafur Steinar Gestsson/Reuters
Now playing
02:28
Video shows people running inside Copenhagen mall as gunshots ring out
Hong Kong Government Flying Service/AFP
Now playing
00:38
Video shows rescue efforts after ship breaks in half
Douyin/State Media
Now playing
03:59
See Chinese police show of force in response to assaults on women
Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid smiles ahead of the vote on a bill to dissolve parliament, at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, Thursday, June 30, 2022. Lapid will serve as caretaker prime minister until elections this fall. It would be Israel's fifth election in under four years. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid smiles ahead of the vote on a bill to dissolve parliament, at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, Thursday, June 30, 2022. Lapid will serve as caretaker prime minister until elections this fall. It would be Israel's fifth election in under four years. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
Ariel Schalit/AP
Now playing
02:26
Yair Lapid takes over as Israel's caretaker prime minister
CNN
Now playing
02:36
Hear what this Parmesan producer has to say about worst drought in 70 years
CNN
Now playing
01:18
NATO Secretary General: Madrid summit a 'victory' for the alliance
President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference on the final day of the NATO summit in Madrid, Thursday, June 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference on the final day of the NATO summit in Madrid, Thursday, June 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Susan Walsh/AP
Now playing
01:29
Biden: 'The reason gas prices are up is because of Russia'
Hong Kong CNN  — 

The young protesters who have thronged Hong Kong’s streets for three months warned the city’s leaders from the beginning: “If we burn, you burn with us.”

That threat seemed all the more real on Saturday, as black smoke poured into the sky from a huge bonfire set by protesters following violent clashes with police outside the city’s legislature. Petrol bombs and bricks were thrown during that standoff, as police replied by firing a water cannon and round after round of tear gas.

Violence continued late into the night, as police officers surrounded by protesters let off warning shots and riot cops were later seen charging into a subway station and attacking alleged protesters on a train. On Sunday, it was protesters who targeted the subway, shutting down and vandalizing several stations after an hours-long standoff which paralyzed transport to and from the city’s airport.

As the violence continues to escalate, Hong Kong’s leaders have made clear they will not negotiate on any of the movement’s key demands, despite calling for “dialogue.”

A flight attendant sprints past a burning barricade in Tung Chung on the way to Hong Kong international airport during protests on September 1, 2019.
A flight attendant sprints past a burning barricade in Tung Chung on the way to Hong Kong international airport during protests on September 1, 2019.
Joshua Berlinger/CNN

The government’s message to protesters seems to be go home empty-handed or risk a major crackdown – which, at its most extreme, could involve the military.

But there are signs that gamble could backfire. Protesters have shown no hesitation to causing disruption to the city’s economy and daily life.

As the mood becomes more nihilistic and angry, some may even welcome a crackdown.

The mood is shifting

The past week has seen a clear escalation in how the authorities handled the protests.

On Friday, several leading pro-democracy activists and politicians were arrested and charged with a variety of offenses, including the vaguely worded “Inciting others to participate in an unlawful assembly,” which carries a maximum five-year jail term, in what appears to have been an attempt to fulfill an impossible task, taking the head off a leaderless movement.

Also on Friday, a rally and march planned by the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF), the group which arranged previous mass peaceful protests attended by hundreds of thousands of people, was banned by police. Although CHRF represents the moderate, non-violent wing of the protests, and has demonstrated support from a broad swath of Hong Kong society, police had no intention of risking an escalation.

That escalation came regardless. Demonstrators took to the streets on Saturday in wildcat demonstrations that eventually coalesced around the legislature, where an hours-long battle broke out between more extreme protesters and police, and spread to other parts of the city. Protesters threw petrol bombs and bricks at police, and aimed laser pointers at them.

A riot policeman sprays pepper spray at a man as they disperse a crowd during a demonstration against "parallel traders" who buy goods in Hong Kong to resell in mainland China on Sunday, January 5.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Andy Wong/AP
A riot policeman sprays pepper spray at a man as they disperse a crowd during a demonstration against "parallel traders" who buy goods in Hong Kong to resell in mainland China on Sunday, January 5.
Pro-democracy supporters hold placards as they take part in a New Year's Day rally on Wednesday, January 1 in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Pro-democracy supporters hold placards as they take part in a New Year's Day rally on Wednesday, January 1 in Hong Kong.
Pro-democracy supporters wave flags during a countdown party in Tsim Sha Tsui district on New Year's Eve.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Pro-democracy supporters wave flags during a countdown party in Tsim Sha Tsui district on New Year's Eve.
Police arrive to conduct a clearance operation in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong on December 31.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images
Police arrive to conduct a clearance operation in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong on December 31.
Protesters take photos of a 'Free HK' light display at a gathering in the Central district of Hong Kong on December 30.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images
Protesters take photos of a 'Free HK' light display at a gathering in the Central district of Hong Kong on December 30.
A man is detained by riot police during a demonstration in a shopping mall at Sheung Shui district on December 28.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A man is detained by riot police during a demonstration in a shopping mall at Sheung Shui district on December 28.
A protester reacts after police fire tear gas to disperse bystanders in the Jordan district of Hong Kong, early on December 25.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images
A protester reacts after police fire tear gas to disperse bystanders in the Jordan district of Hong Kong, early on December 25.
People celebrating the holidays react to tear gas as police confront protesters on Christmas Eve.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
People celebrating the holidays react to tear gas as police confront protesters on Christmas Eve.
Protesters march in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Protesters march in Hong Kong.
Protesters stage a rally outside the US Consulate in Hong Kong on Sunday, December 1. Hundreds gathered Sunday afternoon outside the US Consulate for another pro-US rally to show support for President Trump after he signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Thian/AP
Protesters stage a rally outside the US Consulate in Hong Kong on Sunday, December 1. Hundreds gathered Sunday afternoon outside the US Consulate for another pro-US rally to show support for President Trump after he signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law.
People take part in a march from Tsim Sha Tsui to Hung Hom in Hong Kong on December 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
People take part in a march from Tsim Sha Tsui to Hung Hom in Hong Kong on December 1.
Pro-democracy candidate Jimmy Sham, right, celebrates with a supporter after winning his election in the Sha Tin district, early November 25. "Today's result represents (my constituency's) support to protesters. The government should immediately establish the Five Demands and respond to the public's voices," Sham posted on Facebook, referencing a long-standing protest slogan.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Thian/AP
Pro-democracy candidate Jimmy Sham, right, celebrates with a supporter after winning his election in the Sha Tin district, early November 25. "Today's result represents (my constituency's) support to protesters. The government should immediately establish the Five Demands and respond to the public's voices," Sham posted on Facebook, referencing a long-standing protest slogan.
Pro-democracy candidate James Yu hugs his girlfriend after winning his seat in district council elections, early November 25.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Pro-democracy candidate James Yu hugs his girlfriend after winning his seat in district council elections, early November 25.
People line up to vote outside of a polling place in Hong Kong, November 24. More than <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/24/asia/hong-kong-district-council-elections-intl/index.html" target="_blank">2.9 million people turned out</a> to vote in Sunday's elections, which have been framed as a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/22/asia/hong-kong-protests-district-council-elections-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">de facto referendum</a> on the almost six months of ongoing protests.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
People line up to vote outside of a polling place in Hong Kong, November 24. More than 2.9 million people turned out to vote in Sunday's elections, which have been framed as a de facto referendum on the almost six months of ongoing protests.
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam casts her ballot for the district council elections at a polling place, November 24. In a statement Monday, Lam said her government "respects the election results."
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam casts her ballot for the district council elections at a polling place, November 24. In a statement Monday, Lam said her government "respects the election results."
A group of protesters leave the Hong Kong Polytechnic University holding hands before surrendering to police in the Hung Hom district on November 22.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Dale de la Rey/AFP/Getty Images
A group of protesters leave the Hong Kong Polytechnic University holding hands before surrendering to police in the Hung Hom district on November 22.
Protesters use clothes and helmets to form "SOS" at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 21.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Thian/AP
Protesters use clothes and helmets to form "SOS" at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 21.
Protesters raise their hands to represent the five demands of pro-democracy demonstrators during a rally in support of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in the U.S., at the IFC Mall in Hong Kong, on November 21.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Ng Han Guan/AP
Protesters raise their hands to represent the five demands of pro-democracy demonstrators during a rally in support of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in the U.S., at the IFC Mall in Hong Kong, on November 21.
Tables and chairs piled up to create a barrier are left behind by protesters who barricaded themselves inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
Tables and chairs piled up to create a barrier are left behind by protesters who barricaded themselves inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
A Fire Services Department rescue diver prepares to enter the sewage system on November 20 to search for protesters who escaped from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A Fire Services Department rescue diver prepares to enter the sewage system on November 20 to search for protesters who escaped from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
Police detain a group of people after they tried to flee the Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus on November 19. Last week, thousands of student protesters streamed into the <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/19/asia/hong-kong-polytechnic-university-scene-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">university and occupied the campus </a>as the city's violent political unrest reached fever pitch.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
Police detain a group of people after they tried to flee the Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus on November 19. Last week, thousands of student protesters streamed into the university and occupied the campus as the city's violent political unrest reached fever pitch.
A protester uses a flashlight while crawling through a sewer tunnel to see how wide it is as he and others try to find an escape route from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
A protester uses a flashlight while crawling through a sewer tunnel to see how wide it is as he and others try to find an escape route from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
A protester walks through a gymnasium at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
A protester walks through a gymnasium at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
Protesters react as police fire tear gas in the Kowloon area of Hong Kong, Monday, November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Protesters react as police fire tear gas in the Kowloon area of Hong Kong, Monday, November 18.
Firefighters put out a burning car set on fire by protesters near Hong Kong Polytechnic University in the Tsim Sha Tsui district on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
Firefighters put out a burning car set on fire by protesters near Hong Kong Polytechnic University in the Tsim Sha Tsui district on November 18.
Police in riot gear move through a cloud of smoke as they detain a protester at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong on November 18. Police have <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/asia/live-news/hong-kong-protests-live-nov-18-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">attempted to clear the university</a>, which has been occupied by protesters for days as a strategic protest base.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Ng Han Guan/AP
Police in riot gear move through a cloud of smoke as they detain a protester at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong on November 18. Police have attempted to clear the university, which has been occupied by protesters for days as a strategic protest base.
Police fire tear gas as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Polytechnic University via a bridge on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Dale de la Rey/AFP via Getty Images
Police fire tear gas as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Polytechnic University via a bridge on November 18.
A member of the police clashes with a protester at the Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A member of the police clashes with a protester at the Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
Protesters use a rope to lower themselves from a pedestrian bridge to waiting motorbikes to escape from police at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Protesters use a rope to lower themselves from a pedestrian bridge to waiting motorbikes to escape from police at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
A protester throws an umbrella onto a fire at the barricaded main entrance of Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
A protester throws an umbrella onto a fire at the barricaded main entrance of Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
An anti-government protester is detained at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Laurel Chor/Getty Images
An anti-government protester is detained at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
An anti-government protester is showered down by volunteer medical workers after he was soaked by a police water cannons firing pepper spray-infused water at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
An anti-government protester is showered down by volunteer medical workers after he was soaked by a police water cannons firing pepper spray-infused water at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
Riot police fire tear gas and rubber bullets as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Riot police fire tear gas and rubber bullets as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
A protester prepares to shoot an arrow during a confrontation with police.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
A protester prepares to shoot an arrow during a confrontation with police.
Police use a water cannon outside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ISAAC LAWRENCE/AFP/Getty Images
Police use a water cannon outside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
A protester throws a Molotov cocktail at police on November 17.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
A protester throws a Molotov cocktail at police on November 17.
Protesters use a catapult to fire bricks at the police from inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 17.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters use a catapult to fire bricks at the police from inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 17.
A woman tries to hold back riot police from approaching the Hong Kong University in Hong Kong on Saturday.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Ng Han Guan/AP
A woman tries to hold back riot police from approaching the Hong Kong University in Hong Kong on Saturday.
Protesters train to throw Molotov cocktails into a swimming pool on the campus of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Miguel Candela/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
Protesters train to throw Molotov cocktails into a swimming pool on the campus of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
Protesters walk past barricades of bricks on a road near the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Protesters walk past barricades of bricks on a road near the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
Demonstrators gather during a lunchtime protest in the financial district of Hong Kong on November 14.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Demonstrators gather during a lunchtime protest in the financial district of Hong Kong on November 14.
A protester releases a flaming arrow to light a barricade at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Wednesday, November 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
A protester releases a flaming arrow to light a barricade at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Wednesday, November 13.
A Molotov cocktail, a gas mask and a yellow construction helmet are placed upon a bust of late hotel tycoon Hui Yeung Shing at the campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
A Molotov cocktail, a gas mask and a yellow construction helmet are placed upon a bust of late hotel tycoon Hui Yeung Shing at the campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
A fire is seen at a Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station during a demonstration at The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A fire is seen at a Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station during a demonstration at The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
Students attempt to clear tear gas canisters fired by riot police onto a sports track during a confrontation at the Chinese University in Hong Kong on Tuesday, November 12.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
AP Photo
Students attempt to clear tear gas canisters fired by riot police onto a sports track during a confrontation at the Chinese University in Hong Kong on Tuesday, November 12.
A man is detained during a protest at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 12.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
A man is detained during a protest at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 12.
Students block an escalator with chairs in an attempt to hamper police at the University of Hong Kong on November 12.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Students block an escalator with chairs in an attempt to hamper police at the University of Hong Kong on November 12.
A protester is detained in the Central District of Hong Kong on November 11.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
A protester is detained in the Central District of Hong Kong on November 11.
People react after tear gas was fired by police during a protest in Hong Kong's Central District on November 11.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
People react after tear gas was fired by police during a protest in Hong Kong's Central District on November 11.
Riot police face off with protesters at an entrance of a shopping mall during a demonstration on November 10.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Riot police face off with protesters at an entrance of a shopping mall during a demonstration on November 10.
A man is helped by a volunteer medic after police used pepper spray during a demonstration on November 10.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A man is helped by a volunteer medic after police used pepper spray during a demonstration on November 10.
Students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) participate in a march on November 8, after hospital officials confirmed the <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/07/asia/hong-kong-protester-death-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">death of student Chow Tsz-lok</a>, 22. Police say Chow, a computer sciences student at HKUST, fell from the third floor to the second floor of a parking garage in the residential area of Tseung Kwan O in the early hours of November 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images
Students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) participate in a march on November 8, after hospital officials confirmed the death of student Chow Tsz-lok, 22. Police say Chow, a computer sciences student at HKUST, fell from the third floor to the second floor of a parking garage in the residential area of Tseung Kwan O in the early hours of November 4.
A person places a flower at a memorial for 22-year-old Hong Kong university student Chow Tsz-lok on November 8.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
A person places a flower at a memorial for 22-year-old Hong Kong university student Chow Tsz-lok on November 8.
Students in gas masks are seen during a graduation ceremony at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on Thursday, November 7 in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
Students in gas masks are seen during a graduation ceremony at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on Thursday, November 7 in Hong Kong.
Firefighters stand outside the offices of China's Xinhua News Agency after its windows were damaged by protesters in Hong Kong on Saturday, November 2. Hong Kong riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas and used a water cannon Saturday to break up a rally by thousands of masked protesters demanding autonomy after Beijing indicated it could tighten its grip on the Chinese territory.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Firefighters stand outside the offices of China's Xinhua News Agency after its windows were damaged by protesters in Hong Kong on Saturday, November 2. Hong Kong riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas and used a water cannon Saturday to break up a rally by thousands of masked protesters demanding autonomy after Beijing indicated it could tighten its grip on the Chinese territory.
Richard Chan, a candidate for the district council elections, reacts after being pepper-sprayed by police in Hong Kong on November 2.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Richard Chan, a candidate for the district council elections, reacts after being pepper-sprayed by police in Hong Kong on November 2.
Thousands of black-clad masked protesters streamed into Hong Kong's central shopping district for another rally on November 2.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Thousands of black-clad masked protesters streamed into Hong Kong's central shopping district for another rally on November 2.
A person dressed as President Donald Trump waves an American flag on a street in Hong Kong on Thursday, October 31, 2019. Hong Kong authorities braced as pro-democracy protesters urged people on Thursday to celebrate Halloween by wearing masks on a march in defiance of a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/30/asia/halloween-hong-kong-mask-ban-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">government ban on face coverings</a>.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
A person dressed as President Donald Trump waves an American flag on a street in Hong Kong on Thursday, October 31, 2019. Hong Kong authorities braced as pro-democracy protesters urged people on Thursday to celebrate Halloween by wearing masks on a march in defiance of a government ban on face coverings.
A man dressed as the Joker for Halloween walks past police officers on October 31.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
A man dressed as the Joker for Halloween walks past police officers on October 31.
Pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong (second from left) and Kelvin Lam (second from right) shout slogans as they meet the media outside the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong on October 29, 2019, after Wong was barred from standing in an upcoming local election.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong (second from left) and Kelvin Lam (second from right) shout slogans as they meet the media outside the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong on October 29, 2019, after Wong was barred from standing in an upcoming local election.
A protester throws a tear gas canister on October 27 in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
A protester throws a tear gas canister on October 27 in Hong Kong.
A couple wearing Guy Fawkes masks watch a rally at Chater Garden in Hong Kong on October 26.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Mark Schiefelbein/AP
A couple wearing Guy Fawkes masks watch a rally at Chater Garden in Hong Kong on October 26.
Protesters start a fire in front of the MTR station during demonstration on October 27.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Ivan Cheung/SOPA Images/Getty Images
Protesters start a fire in front of the MTR station during demonstration on October 27.
Tear gas smoke is seen exploding over reporters during an anti-government protest in Mong Kok district in Hong Kong on October 27.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vernon Yuen/Getty Images
Tear gas smoke is seen exploding over reporters during an anti-government protest in Mong Kok district in Hong Kong on October 27.
High school students take part in a human chain rally outside Kowloon park in Hong Kong on October 25.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
High school students take part in a human chain rally outside Kowloon park in Hong Kong on October 25.
Police fire blue dye toward protesters in Hong Kong on Sunday, October 20. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Police fire blue dye toward protesters in Hong Kong on Sunday, October 20. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
A pro-democracy protester is arrested by police on October 20.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A pro-democracy protester is arrested by police on October 20.
Pro-democracy lawmakers protest as Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam delivers a speech at the Legislative Council on Wednesday, October 16. Lam's annual policy address <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/16/asia/hong-kong-protests-explosives-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">ended in chaos</a> as pro-democracy lawmakers repeatedly disrupted her speech and heckled her with calls to honor the demands of anti-government protesters.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Mark Schiefelbein/AP
Pro-democracy lawmakers protest as Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam delivers a speech at the Legislative Council on Wednesday, October 16. Lam's annual policy address ended in chaos as pro-democracy lawmakers repeatedly disrupted her speech and heckled her with calls to honor the demands of anti-government protesters.
A protester shoots a basketball at a poster of Lam during a rally on Tuesday, October 15.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
A protester shoots a basketball at a poster of Lam during a rally on Tuesday, October 15.
Protesters set fire to a Bank of China branch on Sunday, October 13. It was the 19th consecutive weekend of anti-government protests in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/Getty Images
Protesters set fire to a Bank of China branch on Sunday, October 13. It was the 19th consecutive weekend of anti-government protests in Hong Kong.
Protesters use the lights on their phones during a rally in central Hong Kong's business district.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Felipe Dana/AP
Protesters use the lights on their phones during a rally in central Hong Kong's business district.
A protester attempts to break a tourist bus window on October 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A protester attempts to break a tourist bus window on October 13.
Protesters wearing masks in defiance of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/04/asia/hong-kong-face-mask-ban-meeting-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">a recently imposed ban</a> gather at a shopping mall on October 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Protesters wearing masks in defiance of a recently imposed ban gather at a shopping mall on October 13.
Supporters surround a police bus carrying political activist Edward Leung as it leaves the High Court in Hong Kong on Wednesday, October 9. Several hundred masked protesters gathered at Hong Kong's High Court for the appeal hearing of Leung, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/11/asia/edward-leung-hong-kong-jailed-intl/index.html" target="_blank">who was sentenced to six years in prison</a> for his part in a violent clash with police.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Supporters surround a police bus carrying political activist Edward Leung as it leaves the High Court in Hong Kong on Wednesday, October 9. Several hundred masked protesters gathered at Hong Kong's High Court for the appeal hearing of Leung, who was sentenced to six years in prison for his part in a violent clash with police.
A woman is treated after police fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the Mong Kok district of Hong Kong on October 7.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty Images
A woman is treated after police fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the Mong Kok district of Hong Kong on October 7.
Pro-democracy protesters gather in a shopping mall on October 7.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Pro-democracy protesters gather in a shopping mall on October 7.
Rescue personnel check the bottom of a taxi after the driver allegedly drove onto the pavement, hitting protesters in Hong Kong on October 6.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Rescue personnel check the bottom of a taxi after the driver allegedly drove onto the pavement, hitting protesters in Hong Kong on October 6.
A China Construction Bank is seen vandalized in the Causeway Bay area of Hong Kong on October 6.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A China Construction Bank is seen vandalized in the Causeway Bay area of Hong Kong on October 6.
Pro-democracy protesters set fires in the street in the Causeway Bay area.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Pro-democracy protesters set fires in the street in the Causeway Bay area.
People protest the ban against masks on Saturday, October 5.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Laurel Chor/Getty Images
People protest the ban against masks on Saturday, October 5.
An anti-government protester stands near a fire on Friday, October 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters
An anti-government protester stands near a fire on Friday, October 4.
Protesters move a statue depicting a protester armed with gas mask, helmet and umbrella on the streets of Hong Kong on October 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Protesters move a statue depicting a protester armed with gas mask, helmet and umbrella on the streets of Hong Kong on October 4.
Protesters set a fire at a China Construction Bank.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Protesters set a fire at a China Construction Bank.
Protesters spray paint slogans at the entrance to a tunnel on October 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Felipe Dana/AP
Protesters spray paint slogans at the entrance to a tunnel on October 4.
A store is in shambles after being vandalized by protesters.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Laurel Chor/Getty Images
A store is in shambles after being vandalized by protesters.
Pro-democracy demonstrators hold up their hands to symbolize their five demands during a rally on October 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Mohd Rasfan/AFPGetty Images
Pro-democracy demonstrators hold up their hands to symbolize their five demands during a rally on October 4.
Protesters throw petrol bombs at the gate to the Tsuen Wan police station on Wednesday, October 2.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
Protesters throw petrol bombs at the gate to the Tsuen Wan police station on Wednesday, October 2.
Schoolmates of a <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/10/01/asia/hong-kong-oct-1-protests-escalation-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">student who was shot in the chest by police</a> place their hands on their chests during a protest on October 2.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty Images
Schoolmates of a student who was shot in the chest by police place their hands on their chests during a protest on October 2.
A young protester was shot Tuesday, October 1, as violent protests erupted across Hong Kong on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The incident marked a major escalation in violence that could galvanize the protest movement in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Editorial Board, CityU SU/Reuters
A young protester was shot Tuesday, October 1, as violent protests erupted across Hong Kong on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The incident marked a major escalation in violence that could galvanize the protest movement in Hong Kong.
Police detain an anti-government protester on October 1. Thousands of black-clad protesters marched in central Hong Kong as part of multiple pro-democracy rallies.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Felipe Dana/AP
Police detain an anti-government protester on October 1. Thousands of black-clad protesters marched in central Hong Kong as part of multiple pro-democracy rallies.
Police tackle and arrest pro-democracy protesters during clashes on October 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Police tackle and arrest pro-democracy protesters during clashes on October 1.
A protester is seen carrying rocks on a street on October 1. While events in Beijing were being held to mark the <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/10/01/world/gallery/china-70th-anniversary/index.html" target="_blank">70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China,</a> demonstrators rallied throughout Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Isaac Lawrence/AFP/Getty Images
A protester is seen carrying rocks on a street on October 1. While events in Beijing were being held to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, demonstrators rallied throughout Hong Kong.
Protesters react after police fired tear gas near the central government offices in Hong Kong's Admiralty area on October 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters react after police fired tear gas near the central government offices in Hong Kong's Admiralty area on October 1.
Pro-democracy protesters form a "Pepe the Frog" themed human chain on Monday, September 30.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Pro-democracy protesters form a "Pepe the Frog" themed human chain on Monday, September 30.
A man is detained by Hong Kong police during a protest in the Causeway Bay shopping district on Sunday, September 29.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
A man is detained by Hong Kong police during a protest in the Causeway Bay shopping district on Sunday, September 29.
Bus passengers look at a burning barricade lit by pro-democracy protesters in front of the Mong Kok police station on Sunday, September 22.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Bus passengers look at a burning barricade lit by pro-democracy protesters in front of the Mong Kok police station on Sunday, September 22.
Pro-democracy protesters sing songs and chant slogans during a rally inside a shopping mall on September 22.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Pro-democracy protesters sing songs and chant slogans during a rally inside a shopping mall on September 22.
A pro-China supporter, center, is escorted by police after confronting journalists in Hong Kong on September 15.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
A pro-China supporter, center, is escorted by police after confronting journalists in Hong Kong on September 15.
Pro-government and anti-government supporters chant against one another at a shopping mall in Hong Kong on Friday, September 13. The sign translates to "Stop violence and curb chaos; safeguard Hong Kong."
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Amr Abdallah Dalsh/Reuters
Pro-government and anti-government supporters chant against one another at a shopping mall in Hong Kong on Friday, September 13. The sign translates to "Stop violence and curb chaos; safeguard Hong Kong."
Demonstrators hold up their cell phone lights as they form a human chain at the Peak, a tourist spot in Hong Kong, on September 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Demonstrators hold up their cell phone lights as they form a human chain at the Peak, a tourist spot in Hong Kong, on September 13.
Police escort an injured man after he attacked protesters outside Prince Edward station in Hong Kong on Friday, September 6.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Police escort an injured man after he attacked protesters outside Prince Edward station in Hong Kong on Friday, September 6.
Protesters burn paper money to pay their respects to injured protesters.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Protesters burn paper money to pay their respects to injured protesters.
Protesters prepare to clash with police outside the Mong Kok police station on September 6.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Protesters prepare to clash with police outside the Mong Kok police station on September 6.
A protester is detained by police at the Po Lam Mass Transit Railway station on Thursday, September 5.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Tyrone Siu/Reuters
A protester is detained by police at the Po Lam Mass Transit Railway station on Thursday, September 5.
A man watches televisions at a store in Hong Kong as Chief Executive Carrie Lam announces the withdrawal of the extradition bill on Wednesday, September 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
A man watches televisions at a store in Hong Kong as Chief Executive Carrie Lam announces the withdrawal of the extradition bill on Wednesday, September 4.
A woman gets emotional on September 4 while paying her respects to protesters who were injured a few days earlier.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters
A woman gets emotional on September 4 while paying her respects to protesters who were injured a few days earlier.
Demonstrators travel through a railway station during a rally on Tuesday, September 3.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kyle Lam/Bloomberg/Getty Images
Demonstrators travel through a railway station during a rally on Tuesday, September 3.
Students wearing gas masks and helmets hold a banner that reads "five major demands are indispensable" at St. Francis' Canossian College in Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
AP
Students wearing gas masks and helmets hold a banner that reads "five major demands are indispensable" at St. Francis' Canossian College in Hong Kong.
Protesters gather in the bus terminal at Hong Kong International Airport on Sunday, September 1. Hundreds of pro-democracy activists attempted to block transport routes to the city's airport.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters gather in the bus terminal at Hong Kong International Airport on Sunday, September 1. Hundreds of pro-democracy activists attempted to block transport routes to the city's airport.
A passenger walks to the airport on September 1 as pro-democracy protesters blocked a road outside the airport.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
A passenger walks to the airport on September 1 as pro-democracy protesters blocked a road outside the airport.
A protester uses a slingshot outside the Central Government Complex during clashes with police on Saturday, August 31. Thousands of pro-democracy protesters held an anti-government rally one day after several leading activists and lawmakers were arrested in a sweeping crackdown.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
A protester uses a slingshot outside the Central Government Complex during clashes with police on Saturday, August 31. Thousands of pro-democracy protesters held an anti-government rally one day after several leading activists and lawmakers were arrested in a sweeping crackdown.
Protesters light a Molotov cocktail on August 31.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Protesters light a Molotov cocktail on August 31.
Protesters take cover as policemen fire blue-colored water on them. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Protesters take cover as policemen fire blue-colored water on them. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
A surveillance camera is covered with white paint during protests.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Jae C. Hong/AP
A surveillance camera is covered with white paint during protests.
An overhead view shows protesters reacting after police fired tear gas on August 31.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
An overhead view shows protesters reacting after police fired tear gas on August 31.
Pro-democracy activists Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong speak to the media after they were released on bail at the Eastern Magistrates Courts on Friday, August 30. They were arrested earlier the same day in a dragnet across Hong Kong.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
Pro-democracy activists Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong speak to the media after they were released on bail at the Eastern Magistrates Courts on Friday, August 30. They were arrested earlier the same day in a dragnet across Hong Kong.
Protesters clash with police after a rally in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district on Sunday, August 25. <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/25/asia/hong-kong-protest-aug-25-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">It was one of the most violent nights</a> seen in Hong Kong since mass protests began in June.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
Protesters clash with police after a rally in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district on Sunday, August 25. It was one of the most violent nights seen in Hong Kong since mass protests began in June.
A police officer aims a gun in front of a protester on August 25.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Lam Yik Fei/The New York Times/Redux Pictures
A police officer aims a gun in front of a protester on August 25.
Some protesters shine laser pointers at police lines on August 25.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Some protesters shine laser pointers at police lines on August 25.
Protesters pick up bricks to be used as projectiles on August 24.<br />
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters pick up bricks to be used as projectiles on August 24.
Police retreat after clashing with protesters on August 24.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Police retreat after clashing with protesters on August 24.
Cell phones shine from the top of Lion Rock on August 23.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
Cell phones shine from the top of Lion Rock on August 23.
Protesters march under umbrellas on Sunday, August 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
Protesters march under umbrellas on Sunday, August 18.
Tens of thousands of protesters showed up in the streets on August 18.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Tens of thousands of protesters showed up in the streets on August 18.
A protester participates in a march on Saturday, August 17. His eye is covered with red gauze, referencing a woman who was allegedly shot in the eye with a beanbag round during clashes between protesters and police.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
A protester participates in a march on Saturday, August 17. His eye is covered with red gauze, referencing a woman who was allegedly shot in the eye with a beanbag round during clashes between protesters and police.
Protesters point lasers at the Sham Shui Po police station on August 14.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Yu/AP
Protesters point lasers at the Sham Shui Po police station on August 14.
A police officer falls over an airport luggage trolley during a scuffle with pro-democracy protesters on Tuesday, August 13. For two days, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/13/asia/hong-kong-airport-chaos-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">protesters flooded the airport.</a> Check-ins were suspended and dozens of outgoing flights were canceled.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
A police officer falls over an airport luggage trolley during a scuffle with pro-democracy protesters on Tuesday, August 13. For two days, protesters flooded the airport. Check-ins were suspended and dozens of outgoing flights were canceled.
A traveler passes her luggage to security guards as she tries to enter the departures gate.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
A traveler passes her luggage to security guards as she tries to enter the departures gate.
A display board shows canceled flights on August 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vernon Yuen/NurPhoto via Getty Images
A display board shows canceled flights on August 13.
Medics look after a woman who received a facial injury during clashes on Sunday, August 11.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Medics look after a woman who received a facial injury during clashes on Sunday, August 11.
A pro-democracy protester is held by police outside the Tsim Sha Tsui police station on August 11.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
A pro-democracy protester is held by police outside the Tsim Sha Tsui police station on August 11.
Police fire tear gas at protesters during a demonstration in the Wong Tai Sin District on Monday, August 5.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Police fire tear gas at protesters during a demonstration in the Wong Tai Sin District on Monday, August 5.
A train passenger gestures toward a protester, right, who was preventing the doors of a train from closing on August 5. The protester was trying to disrupt Hong Kong's morning rush-hour commute.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
A train passenger gestures toward a protester, right, who was preventing the doors of a train from closing on August 5. The protester was trying to disrupt Hong Kong's morning rush-hour commute.
A man comforts his pregnant wife near a train platform after protesters blocked the train doors on August 5.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
A man comforts his pregnant wife near a train platform after protesters blocked the train doors on August 5.
A protester stands in tear gas during a confrontation with police in the early hours of Sunday, August 4.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Elson Li/AP
A protester stands in tear gas during a confrontation with police in the early hours of Sunday, August 4.
A Chinese flag floats in water after it was thrown by protesters during a demonstration on Saturday, August 3.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vincent Thian/AP
A Chinese flag floats in water after it was thrown by protesters during a demonstration on Saturday, August 3.
Members of Hong Kong's medical sector attend a protest in Edinburgh Place on Friday, August 2.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Members of Hong Kong's medical sector attend a protest in Edinburgh Place on Friday, August 2.
The emblem on the China Liaison Office is protected by plexiglass during a demonstration on Sunday, July 28.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
The emblem on the China Liaison Office is protected by plexiglass during a demonstration on Sunday, July 28.
A protester flees from baton-wielding police in the Yuen Long district of Hong Kong on Saturday, July 27.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Eric Tsang/HK01 via AP
A protester flees from baton-wielding police in the Yuen Long district of Hong Kong on Saturday, July 27.
A protester looks through umbrellas during the clashes with police on July 27.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
A protester looks through umbrellas during the clashes with police on July 27.
Travelers watch as protesters rally at Hong Kong's international airport on Friday, July 26.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
Travelers watch as protesters rally at Hong Kong's international airport on Friday, July 26.
Protesters clash with police on Sunday, July 21.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Protesters clash with police on Sunday, July 21.
Masked men in white T-shirts are seen after <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/07/23/asia/hong-kong-triad-arrests-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">attacking anti-extradition bill demonstrators</a> at a train station in Yuen Long.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Tyrone Siu/Reuters
Masked men in white T-shirts are seen after attacking anti-extradition bill demonstrators at a train station in Yuen Long.
Medical workers help a protester affected by tear gas on July 21.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Bobby Yip/AP
Medical workers help a protester affected by tear gas on July 21.
The office of pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was trashed by protesters in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
The office of pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was trashed by protesters in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district.
Police officers use pepper spray to disperse protesters after a rally in the Sheung Shui district on Saturday, July 13.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Police officers use pepper spray to disperse protesters after a rally in the Sheung Shui district on Saturday, July 13.
A demonstrator sprays paint inside a chamber at Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, where protesters forced their way in on Monday, July 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Tyrone Siu/Reuters
A demonstrator sprays paint inside a chamber at Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, where protesters forced their way in on Monday, July 1.
A protester smashes a window of the Legislative Council building.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Ritchie B. Tongo/EPA-EFE/Shutters/Shutterstock
A protester smashes a window of the Legislative Council building.
Columns of sunlight are cast on a crowd during the march on July 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
Columns of sunlight are cast on a crowd during the march on July 1.
Helicopters carrying the flags of China and Hong Kong fly over demonstrators on July 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kyle Lam/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Helicopters carrying the flags of China and Hong Kong fly over demonstrators on July 1.
A police officer uses pepper spray during a clash with protesters on July 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
A police officer uses pepper spray during a clash with protesters on July 1.
A protester wearing a T-shirt with the word "revolution" walks past an inscription on a road that reads "Long Live HK."
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Kin Cheung/AP
A protester wearing a T-shirt with the word "revolution" walks past an inscription on a road that reads "Long Live HK."
Police detain protesters near the government headquarters in Hong Kong on July 1.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Vivek Prakash/AFP/Getty Images
Police detain protesters near the government headquarters in Hong Kong on July 1.
An overhead view shows thousands of protesters marching through a Hong Kong street on Sunday, June 16.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
STR/AFP/Getty Images
An overhead view shows thousands of protesters marching through a Hong Kong street on Sunday, June 16.
Protesters run after police fired tear gas on Wednesday, June 12.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters run after police fired tear gas on Wednesday, June 12.
By the morning of June 12, tens of thousands of mainly young people had arrived in the area, blocking streets and bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters
By the morning of June 12, tens of thousands of mainly young people had arrived in the area, blocking streets and bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill.
A demonstrator holds a sign during the June 12 rally.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
A demonstrator holds a sign during the June 12 rally.
Police officers charge toward protesters during clashes on Monday, June 10. It was a continuation of protests that started the day before.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Police officers charge toward protesters during clashes on Monday, June 10. It was a continuation of protests that started the day before.
Protesters on June 9 waved placards and wore white -- the designated color of the rally. "Hong Kong, never give up!" some chanted.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
Protesters on June 9 waved placards and wore white -- the designated color of the rally. "Hong Kong, never give up!" some chanted.
Students wear chains during a demonstration on Saturday, June 8.
Photos: Hong Kong unrest
Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
Students wear chains during a demonstration on Saturday, June 8.

Here again, police tactics were noticeably harsher than in earlier days of protests. They repeatedly use water cannon, only the second occasion this summer, and deployed hundreds of officers to the streets, charging protester lines and carrying out dozens of arrests.

The water cannon fired blue dye, which typically leaves a residual stain making it easier to identify participants for arrest later.

Ordered in 2015, police had resisted using water cannon for nearly three months. Now that tool has been deployed from their arsenal, it has quickly become normalized. Protesters are adapting just as quickly, sharing information online on how to get rid of the blue stains.

As both police and protesters continue to escalate their tactics with no sign of the unrest halting, fears grow that the government will turn to the Chinese military for support in putting the protests down.

Last week, thousands of new troops from the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) joined the garrison in the city. The PLA described it as a usual annual rotation of staff, but US military officials told CNN they had seen no evidence that existing forces left the garrison, and suggested it instead may have been significantly reinforced.

Around the same time, Hong Kong’s leader Carrie Lam also refused to rule out instituting the Emergency Regulations Ordinance to tackle the protests. The colonial era bill would allow her to “make any regulations whatsoever” in an “occasion of emergency or public danger.” This could allow for mass arrests, curfews and media or internet censorship.

All eyes will be on Lam this week to see if she institutes such powers – or if she asks the PLA garrison for assistance in controlling the protests.

02:25 - Source: CNN
Hong Kong protests hit low-income workers hard

HK officials stalling, or powerless to act

As the smoke and tear gas clears after the weekend’s violence, escalation on both sides appears to be the only thing on the cards.

While Lam has made gestures towards meeting with young people, and potentially with protester representatives, she has also repeatedly refused to negotiate when it comes to the opposition movement’s five core demands. These include a complete withdrawal of the currently suspended extradition bill that kicked off this whole mess, an independent investigation into allegations of police brutality, and the restarting of long-stalled political reform.

Saturday’s protests marked five years since Beijing ruled out true universal suffrage for how the city’s chief executive is chosen. In the type of tin-eared statement that has characterized the Hong Kong government’s response to the crisis, a city spokesman said Saturday – to the rage of many already on the streets – that “rashly embarking on political reform again will further polarize society, which is an irresponsible act.”

The government is offering protesters few choices. They can go home and pin their hopes on a vague promise of future negotiations once the violence has stopped, or continue protesting until the government cracks down.

Hong Kong officials may not be the ones choosing this strategy – Reuters reported last week that Lam suggested a compromise in August but was overruled by Beijing – but they do not have the cards to risk such a bluff. Lam had apparently mooted a withdrawal of the extradition bill in order to defuse the crisis, but Beijing ordered a hard line.

CNN has reached out to the Hong Kong-Macao Affairs Office and the Office of Chief Executive Carrie Lam for comment on the Reuters report. China’s foreign ministry on Friday reiterated that the central government “supports, respects and understands” the Hong Kong government’s position on protester demands.

In a strident commentary Sunday, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said that “violence in Hong Kong must end now.”

The Hong Kong government and police “took decisive measures to enforce the law and stop the violence, sending a clear warning to the rioters,” Xinhua said. “The end is coming for those attempting to disrupt Hong Kong and antagonize China.”

A woman holds a cross in front of the Mongkok Police Station as riot police holding shields stand guard during a standoff with protesters after an anti-government rally in on September 1, 2019, in Hong Kong.
A woman holds a cross in front of the Mongkok Police Station as riot police holding shields stand guard during a standoff with protesters after an anti-government rally in on September 1, 2019, in Hong Kong.
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images

What a crackdown might look like

The PLA has had a presence in Hong Kong since the 1997 handover from British control, but has remained very much in the background in a city where a large memorial for the Tiananmen Square massacre is held each year.

The sight of PLA troops patrolling Hong Kong’s streets, let alone using force, has long been feared as a symbolic point of no return for the city.

The Tiananmen parallels would be hard to avoid even in a peaceful operation, and analysts agree that it would risk crashing the city’s economy, sending foreign firms and investors scrambling for the exits. Censorship of local media or the internet could have a similar effect.

Who would be the most hurt by this? Probably not the young people who make up the most radical, violent core of the protests. For many of them, a future under full Chinese rule – approaching fast in 2047 under current constitutional arrangements – is a hopeless prospect.

Already at the sharp end of Hong Kong’s horrendous economic inequality and unfair housing system, they are also less concerned about inflicting economic damage. Nothing has hurt the city’s global standing more than protests at the airport, but radical groups have continued to target it, seeing it as a weak point to exploit and one that draws significant international attention.

Protesters gather on a road as police fire tear gas outside the government headquarters in Hong Kong on August 31, 2019.
Protesters gather on a road as police fire tear gas outside the government headquarters in Hong Kong on August 31, 2019.
ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/AFP/Getty Images

Hardcore protesters sometimes appear to relish the thought of PLA troops on the streets, seeing it as proof of their ability to shake the foundation of not only the Hong Kong government but also the powers in Beijing.

“Good! We are ready for it, we want it!” protesters told CNN during ugly scenes of mob violence at the city’s airport last month, when asked about what could happen in the event of a PLA crackdown.

“Give me liberty or give me death,” read graffiti left by protesters after more chaotic scenes near the airport on Sunday.

Graffiti on a wall in Tung Chung, where protesters fled after disrupting transport to and from Hong Kong airport.
Graffiti on a wall in Tung Chung, where protesters fled after disrupting transport to and from Hong Kong airport.
Joshua Berlinger/CNN

Whether Lam can handle the repercussions of a decision to clamp down militarily is much less clear. Any local support she has comes from the city’s elite, the tycoons who profited off the city’s yawning inequality and huge influx of Chinese capital, and have kept their noses out of the city’s current political crisis.

Should PLA troops be deployed to help secure the city – or, worse, a full-scale military crackdown ordered – she would be immortalized as the figurehead of that decision: the chief executive who oversaw the worst crisis in Hong Kong’s history – and did not act to stop it.

Beijing may already be risking economic and societal damage by maintaining its uncompromising stance. The Chinese economy is facing a multitude of challenges – weak growth, high levels of debt, and, of course, the ongoing trade war with the US. Economic collapse, or even the slowdown of Hong Kong, could have knock-on effects north of the border, ones that could quickly spin out of Beijing’s control.

In a statement Sunday calling for a general strike, the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions blamed the ongoing crisis squarely on the government. “We must save Hong Kong from institutional collapse,” the group warned. “Hong Kong is our beloved home; our jobs, livelihoods, family, and friends that we cherish are all here. We cannot let those who are in power continue to ravage the home that we always hold dear.”

If the increasingly violent protesters are the ones who have turned Hong Kong into a tinderbox, it’s the government holding the matches. One wrong move now could see the whole city burn.