Protest outside Netanyahu hotel

Protests erupted in Washington, D.C., as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Congress regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths. Thousands of demonstrators, including pro-Palestinian activists, rallied outside the Capitol and Union Station, demanding an end to U.S. military aid to Israel and calling for Netanyahu's arrest for alleged war crimes. Police clashed with protesters, deploying pepper spray as tensions escalated, particularly when protesters attempted to breach police lines. As Netanyahu met with President Biden and Vice President Harris, protesters projected messages onto the Watergate Hotel, including 'Arrest Netanyahu'. The demonstrations reflect growing dissatisfaction with U.S. support for Israel amid the conflict, with activists organizing a 'people’s red line against genocide'. Netanyahu's meetings with U.S. leaders are seen as efforts to secure bipartisan support for Israel amidst escalating violence in Gaza.