DID Press: Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Congress, calling for an immediate end to the war and killings in Gaza, broad sanctions against Israel, and a complete halt to U.S. arms shipments to the country.
The demonstration was organized by the Palestinian Youth Movement and allied groups. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and held placards condemning Israel’s occupation and Washington’s military support for Israel.
Demonstrators also criticized U.S. military spending abroad, arguing that billions of dollars in military assistance are being allocated to Israel while Americans face rising living costs and low wages.
Nohad Akkar of the Palestinian Youth Movement said activists would not allow what they describe as genocide in Gaza to be normalized. She said they would continue their campaign until the situation ended and Palestinians achieved freedom and the right of return.
Isabella Javidan of the National Iranian American Council also criticized U.S. policies, citing developments in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran. She condemned what she described as militaristic policies and the influence of the arms industry on congressional decision-making.
Eric W., a Jewish American protester, said arming Israel does not help combat antisemitism and argued that Jewish security should not be used to justify military support for Israel.
The demonstration comes amid continued debate in the United States over military assistance to Israel and growing calls from activists for U.S. officials to be held accountable for the consequences of Washington’s support during the Gaza war.