Amid escalating tensions in the Israel-Palestine conflict, thousands of individuals have begun expressing their support for Palestine as on-the-ground news sources have spoken out about the tragic conditions facing Palestinian people. Nationwide demonstrations have taken place, with one notable gathering in Washington DC on Wednesday, the 18th. Hundreds of protestors gathered to show support for Palestine, with attendees gathering in the Cannon Rotunda, in the Cannon House Congressional Building. Over 300 protestors were arrested and charged for illegally protesting inside a Congressional House building.
The protest, organized by the Jewish House For Peace, remained strong as hundreds of protestors gathered in the areas surrounding the Capitol Building. Protestors demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, chanting “free Palestine.”
Wednesday’s protest followed the tragic bombing of the Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza on Tuesday, the 17th, with officials claiming it to be an attack led by Israeli forces to destabilize healthcare in the region, and other news sources stating the bombing to be the result of a faulty rocket misfire from Palestinian forces. With several news outlets circulating unverified information concerning events in Gaza, the actual circumstances of the hospital incident remain unclear. Nonetheless, it is clear that this tragic event resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and caused great suffering to hundreds of families.
Another DC protest took place on Friday, with organizers and attendees gathering at the National Mall, calling for a ceasefire and peacefully supporting the Palestinian people. Several community lawmakers, Black rights activists, civilians, and religious leaders joined the march, calling for peace in the region, and showing solidarity with Palestine. Several Jewish protests noted personal lack of family support, stating that they had their Jewish identities questioned after showing support for Palestine. They continued to show solidarity however, with Jewish leaders such as Rabbi Brant Rosen stated “Did we act, or did we stand idly by while genocide was committed in our name?”
President Biden has expressed general dismay towards the tension in Gaza, and has shown support towards Israeli forces, with a promise to provide military aid and funding to Israel.
“We must keep working for Israel’s greater integration with its neighbors. These attacks have only strengthened my commitment and determination and my will to get that done.” -President Biden
