Last updated on August 28th, 2024 at 12:04 pm
Washington: Thousands of protesters rallied outside the US Capitol on Wednesday against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for an immediate ceasefire in the open conflict between Israel and Hamas. The protesters waved Palestinian flags and held signs ranging from far-left slogans to Bible verses as they demanded an end to the violence and for Netanyahu to be prosecuted at the International Criminal Court.
Netanyahu to Address Congress Amid Rising Tensions
Relations between the US and Israel have deteriorated as Netanyahu was ready to address the US Congress owing to the growing civilian death tolls in Gaza. The growing protests and criticism by the administration of President Joe Biden have not led to significant cuts in US military support for Israel.
Protesters denounced Netanyahu’s US visit. Signs included a variety of quotes from the Bible, including “Seek peace and pursue it,” while others depicted Netanyahu as a criminal, with “wanted” posters.
Medical Professionals Highlight Humanitarian Crisis
Doctors Against Genocide’s Karameh Kuemmerle protested to make people aware of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Gaza: Escalation Continues
The protests come against the backdrop of increased Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu has emphasized the need for more military pressure to take hostages free and defeat Hamas after an unexpected assault by the militant organization on October 7 killed 1,197. Another 251 hostages were taken by the militants, 116 of whom are still held in Gaza, with the Israeli military saying 44 are dead.
