Thousands of demonstrators, outraged by Israel’s military actions in Gaza, marched on the US Capitol on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed to lawmakers for unwavering support as his forces continue to fight Hamas.
The protest, which included families, children, and elderly participants, culminated in a group burning an effigy of Netanyahu along with American flags. Activists carried Palestinian flags and signs with various messages, including calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and Netanyahu’s arrest by the International Criminal Court.
One sign quoted the Bible, “Seek peace and pursue it,” while others depicted Netanyahu as a criminal in “wanted” posters. At a pre-march rally, Palestinian and Jewish organizers condemned both the US and Israeli governments for “genocide,” demanding a “citizen’s arrest” of Netanyahu.
Karameh Kuemmerle from Doctors Against Genocide expressed horror at the destruction of Gaza’s health system, criticizing the US for providing weapons used against children in Gaza. Relations between Washington and Israel have been strained as the civilian death toll in Gaza rises, leading to US protests and President Biden’s criticism, though US military support remains unchanged.
Security at the Capitol was heightened ahead of Netanyahu’s speech, which was delivered amidst scuffles between police and protesters, resulting in several arrests near Union Station. Demonstrators burned American flags and raised Palestinian flags in their place, while Netanyahu, inside the Capitol, called for continued US support, stating, “For the forces of civilization to triumph, America and Israel must stand together.”
Protesters condemned Washington’s support for the offensive, with some congressional staffers staging a walkout to demand a ceasefire. Netanyahu’s criticism of the protesters as “Iran’s useful idiots” drew boos from US lawmakers.
The conflict has intensified, with over 39,100 Palestinians, mostly civilians, killed in Gaza, according to the enclave’s health ministry. The October 7 Hamas attack resulted in 1,197 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, with 114 of the 251 hostages still held in Gaza, including 42 who are confirmed dead.
