Protesters against the Gaza war gathered at a congressional office building on Tuesday in anticipation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming address to Congress. The demonstration, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, saw protesters wearing red T-shirts with the message 'Not In Our Name' taking over the Rotunda of the Cannon Building. Chanting 'Let Gaza Live!' the demonstrators made their voices heard.
After a period of clapping and chanting, U.S. Capitol Police intervened, issuing warnings before proceeding to arrest multiple protesters. The protesters, including individuals with personal connections to the Holocaust, expressed their opposition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and called for an immediate cessation of arms shipments to Israel.
The protest activity surrounding Netanyahu's visit to the U.S. has been met with both condemnation of Israel and calls for a cease-fire deal. Families of hostages held by Hamas planned a vigil on the National Mall, while various demonstrations are scheduled for Wednesday, coinciding with Netanyahu's address to Congress.
Security measures have been heightened around the Capitol building, with road closures in effect for the week. President Joe Biden is set to meet with Netanyahu on Thursday, with Vice President Kamala Harris also scheduled for a separate meeting. Notably, Harris will be absent during Netanyahu's address to Congress due to a prior commitment in Indianapolis.
Former President Donald Trump announced plans to meet with Netanyahu on Friday, underscoring the significance of the diplomatic engagements surrounding the Israeli leader's visit to the United States.
