Protest Against Gaza War Erupts in Washington
A protest against the ongoing Gaza war erupted in Washington as demonstrators staged a sit-in at a congressional office building ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress. Capitol Police made several arrests as tensions ran high.
Protesters Demand Ceasefire and End to Weapons Shipments
Protesters, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, gathered at the Cannon Building’s rotunda, wearing red T-shirts that read “Not in our name” and chanting “Let Gaza live!” The demonstrators demanded an immediate ceasefire and called on President Joe Biden to halt all weapons shipments to Israel. The protest was marked by emotional outbursts and passionate pleas for peace.
Arrests Made and Calls for Action
After warnings from the U.S. Capitol Police, arrests were made as protesters continued their demonstration. The daughter of a Holocaust survivor, Jane Hirschmann, expressed her personal connection to the cause and the urgency of the situation. Calls for action against the Biden administration and its support for Israel’s military actions were echoed throughout the protest.
Upcoming Meetings and Continued Protests
As Netanyahu’s visit to the U.S. sparked a wave of protests, plans for continued demonstrations and vigils were set in motion. Families of hostages still held by Hamas planned a protest vigil, while overlapping protests were scheduled for Netanyahu’s address to Congress. Security measures were heightened around the Capitol in anticipation of further unrest.
Amidst the ongoing turmoil, meetings between world leaders were planned, including a meeting between Biden and Netanyahu, as well as a separate meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris. The political landscape remained tense as protests and calls for action reverberated throughout Washington.
As the situation continues to develop, the voices of protesters and advocates for peace grow louder, demanding an end to the violence in Gaza and a reevaluation of U.S. support for military actions in the region.
