Protesters gathered in Washington D.C. to demonstrate against the Gaza war, staging a 'die-in' near Lafayette Park and the White House while President Joe Biden met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The protesters poured red liquid on the street, symbolizing the blood of those killed in Gaza, and chanted 'Arrest Netanyahu.' An effigy of Netanyahu, with blood on its hands and wearing an orange jumpsuit labeled 'Wanted for crimes against humanity,' was also displayed.
Since the war began in October, over 39,000 people have lost their lives in Gaza, with several Israeli hostages still held by Hamas. Netanyahu defended Israel's actions during the conflict in a recent address to Congress, prompting thousands of demonstrators to gather near the Capitol, demanding his arrest.
Protesters near Union Station replaced American flags with Palestinian ones, drawing cheers from the crowd, and defaced a monument to Christopher Columbus with graffiti. Vice President Kamala Harris condemned pro-Hamas rhetoric and the burning of the American flag, emphasizing the importance of respecting national symbols.
The demonstration saw a smaller turnout on the following day, with activist Hazami Barmada criticizing Biden's decision not to seek reelection and urging Harris to demonstrate her commitment to Palestinian rights. Barmada expressed skepticism about supporting Harris until she proves her dedication to Democratic ideals.
During the protest, a man draped in an Israeli flag entered the demonstration area, prompting jeers from the crowd. Police intervened to prevent clashes between the two sides, escorting the man away without detaining him. Barmada highlighted the tension, accusing the man of attempting to 'occupy' their protest.
As the protest continued, demonstrators marched through city streets toward the National Mall, advocating for their cause.
