Protesters caused a disruption at Capitol Hill ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech. The protesters, many of whom were part of a Jewish group, gathered in the Cannon Rotunda wearing red shirts with messages like “Jews Say Stop Arming Israel” and “Stop Arming Israel.” Some protesters were arrested by law enforcement as they clapped and chanted in circles.
A source from Rep. Dan Kildee’s office reported that staff and interns had to barricade themselves in their offices due to the protesters violently beating on the doors. Congressman Kildee and his team were reported safe, and arrests were made by the U.S. Capitol Police and Sergeant at Arms to control the situation.
The protest, which involved “peaceful demonstrators,” led to the clearing of the Cannon Rotunda by 4:30 p.m. The number of arrests made during the protest is still unknown, but the police assured that the area was now free of demonstrators.
The demonstration coincided with Netanyahu’s visit to the U.S., where he is scheduled to meet with President Biden and Vice President Harris. Netanyahu will also address a joint session of Congress, with Senator Ben Cardin presiding over the speech in Harris’ absence. The Israeli leader emphasized that Israel would continue to support the U.S. regardless of the next American president.
The protest and subsequent arrests highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding Israel’s policies and actions, with some groups and individuals expressing strong opposition. The disruption at Capitol Hill serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the diverse range of opinions and sentiments regarding Israeli government actions.
