Thousands assembled over the weekend to protest Israel’s response to Gaza, converging outside the White House. Some demonstrators, advocating for Palestine, breached the gates in discontent with the Biden administration’s management of the situation, urging an urgent cessation of hostilities.
On Saturday, November 4, the incident transpired. It commenced as a gathering in the afternoon at Freedom Plaza and subsequently transitioned into a procession around the White House premises. Protesters called for the United States to cease the war and withdraw its support for Israel. According to ABC News, demonstrators criticized the Biden administration for aligning with Israel.
Incidents included individuals attempting to scale the tall wrought-iron fence surrounding the White House and others expressing their frustration through property damage. Many carried Palestinian flags, and some brought symbolic coffins to memorialize those affected by the conflict. Authorities arrested at least one person for property destruction, and investigations are underway to apprehend additional suspects involved in acts of vandalism.
Pro-Palestinian protesters claim Israel is involved in what they see as genocide in Gaza, influenced by Hamas. In the past month, 9,480 Palestinians reportedly died in retaliatory airstrikes. Israel asserts these actions target jihadists, aiming to minimize civilian casualties. Al Jazeera reports that over 4,000 of the casualties in Gaza are children.
Hamas initiated the current conflict on October 7 by entering Israeli streets and causing the death of over 1,400 people, including women and children. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue the current battle until every member of the Islamic terrorist organization is eliminated, and every hostage they have taken is freed.
Advocates for Palestine argue that Israel has created a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging the provision of essential resources like water, food, fuel, and medical supplies to the occupied region.
