Netanyahu to Face Massive Protests During Washington Visit
Washington, DC, is bracing for significant demonstrations as thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters plan a “day of rage” coinciding with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress on Wednesday. The protests are a reaction to the ongoing war in Gaza and Netanyahu’s stance on the conflict.
Protest Organizers Voice Strong Opposition
Ahmad Abuznaid, executive director of the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, emphasized the protesters’ determination to express their disapproval of Netanyahu. “We want to make it clear that war criminals like Netanyahu are not welcome in the United States,” he stated. Netanyahu’s visit marks his first trip abroad since the Israel-Hamas conflict erupted, during which he intends to “present the truth about our just war.”
House Speaker Issues Warning
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who extended the invitation to Netanyahu, has cautioned against disruptions within the House chamber, promising arrests if necessary. However, organizers predict that the protests outside will be intense. Reem Assil from the Arab Resource and Organizing Center, traveling from California, expressed her outrage over the deaths of her family members in Gaza. “The idea that the man responsible for these atrocities is allowed to come here channels my rage,” she said. Assil has lost over 40 family members and continues to grieve daily while advocating for her people.
Background on the Conflict
The war in Gaza began on October 7 of the previous year when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 251 Israelis and foreigners. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 39,000 Palestinians have since been killed in the Israeli retaliation. Israel denies accusations of committing war crimes.
Meetings with US Leaders
During his visit, Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet President Joe Biden, Vice-President Kamala Harris, and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Jinan Deena, a Palestinian-American from Washington, expressed her disdain for Netanyahu’s presence in the city, calling it “a slap in the face.”
Increased Willingness to Protest
An anonymous organizer from Michigan noted a heightened willingness among protesters to risk arrest compared to previous demonstrations. Over 300 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested in October for unlawfully gathering at the US Capitol complex. Ayah, an organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement, highlighted the unique intensity of this protest, stating, “It is our enemy, our primary enemy, they are inviting into the White House.”
Netanyahu’s Domestic and International Pressures
Netanyahu faces significant pressure both internationally and domestically regarding his handling of the conflict. His trip follows a ruling by the International Court of Justice declaring Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories illegal—a ruling Israel rejects. The International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor has applied for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and senior Hamas leaders, alleging war crimes on both sides.
Dissent Among Israelis
Polling by Israel’s Channel 12 revealed that 72% of Israelis believe Netanyahu should resign due to security failures on October 7 and the inability to free hostages held by Hamas. Maya Roman, whose cousin was held captive for 54 days by Hamas, is among the Israelis traveling to the US to protest. She accused Netanyahu of neglecting the hostages’ plight by not securing a ceasefire deal that could free them.
Support for Netanyahu
Not all reactions are negative. Pro-Israel supporters will also be present in Washington. Ira Stoll, a Jewish-American with family in Israel, expressed his support for Netanyahu’s visit, stating, “America needs to show it stands with its friends, and Netanyahu is the elected leader of one of our friends.”
The protests are expected to bring significant attention to the ongoing conflict and the varying perspectives on Netanyahu’s leadership and actions.
