WASHINGTON, USA: Protesters staged a significant sit-in at a congressional office building ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress.
This demonstration, which led to numerous arrests, underscores the intense opposition to the ongoing Gaza war. Netanyahu’s visit to Washington includes meetings with President Joe Biden and a speech before a joint session of Congress.
The protests were organized by Jewish Voice for Peace and featured hundreds of demonstrators in red T-shirts emblazoned with “Not In Our Name.” The protesters occupied the Cannon Building’s rotunda, displaying signs and chanting “Let Gaza Live!” Capitol Police eventually arrested the protesters after multiple warnings.
Among the protesters was Jane Hirschmann, a Holocaust survivor’s daughter, who criticized the Biden administration for continuing arms shipments to Israel. “We’re not focusing on Netanyahu. He’s just a symptom,” she stated, emphasizing that Biden’s actions contradict his calls for a ceasefire.
Capitol Police did not release a final arrest tally, but Jewish Voice for Peace claimed 400 arrests, including over a dozen rabbis. Rep. Dan Kildee’s office called for police intervention, citing disruptive behavior by protesters.
Netanyahu’s visit has sparked a range of protests, including those urging a ceasefire and the return of hostages held by Hamas. On Tuesday evening, families of hostages held a vigil on the National Mall, urging Netanyahu to secure their release. About 150 people, wearing yellow shirts that read “Seal the Deal NOW!” chanted “Bring Them Home” and shared testimonials from relatives and former hostages. Several criticized Netanyahu for allegedly delaying a ceasefire deal that would facilitate the hostages’ return.
In preparation for Netanyahu’s Wednesday address to Congress, security around the Capitol has been heightened, with multiple road closures. Biden and Netanyahu are expected to meet Thursday, with Vice President Kamala Harris also holding a separate meeting. Harris, now the likely Democratic presidential candidate, will be away in Indianapolis during Netanyahu’s address. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump announced plans to meet with Netanyahu on Friday.
These events highlight the deepening divisions and heightened tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict, both in the US and internationally. The protests reflect growing discontent with the Biden administration’s policies and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As Netanyahu continues his US visit, the political and social ramifications of these protests will likely persist.
