WASHINGTON: Thousands of demonstrators marched towards the US Capitol on Wednesday to protest Benjamin Netanyahu and call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, as the Israeli premier prepared to address the US Congress.
Crowds carrying Palestinian flags and signs ranging from left-wing slogans to Bible verses gathered near the Capitol calling for a ceasefire and the arrest of Netanyahu, as prosecutors seek a warrant for him at the International Criminal Court.
Small clashes broke out as police fired pepper spray on some protesters to redirect the demonstration as it neared the seat of US government, which was the scene of a riot by Trump supporters on January 6, 2021.
Several demonstrators could be seen washing their eyes and faces after the scuffle.
“The hypocrisy of our politicians today has gone beyond any limits,” Mo, a 58-year-old protester, told AFP.
Netanyahu was addressing a joint session of Congress in a high-profile speech. America is Israel’s steadfast ally in its war against Hamas.
Relations have grown strained as the civilian death toll in Gaza has grown, leading to protests in the United States and increasing criticism from President Joe Biden’s administration, although little has changed in the way of US military support.
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Ahead of Netanayahu’s speech, security was reportedly increased at the Capitol, much of which was closed to the public on Wednesday, according to publication The Hill.
Meanwhile, a group of congressional political staffers was planning a walkout, one told AFP without offering more details.
Protesters gathered Wednesday were calling for a ceasefire while also criticizing Netanyahu’s appearance in the United States and Israel’s longstanding policies toward Palestinians.
“Seek peace and pursue it,” read one sign, quoting a Bible verse, while others were designed as criminal “wanted” signs, with photos of Netanyahu in place of a mugshot.
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