Over 200 arrested as pro-Palestine activists disrupt Capitol
On Tuesday, US Capitol Police arrested over 200 pro-Palestine protesters who stormed the US Congressional building ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address. Videos on social media show fountains near Capitol Hill dyed blood-red and projections demanding Netanyahu’s arrest, labeling him a “war criminal.”
Disturbance at the Watergate Hotel
A DC-based pro-Palestine group, the Palestinian Youth Movement, claimed responsibility for releasing mealworms and insects at the Watergate Hotel, where Netanyahu is staying. They also triggered fire alarms to disrupt Netanyahu and his delegation. The group stated on Instagram, “May their dreams be haunted by the death of our people and the decay of their society.”
Online and on-ground protests
Protesters also disseminated anti-Israel and anti-Netanyahu messages on Telegram, accusing them of having “BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS.” They projected messages like “Wanted. Arrest war criminal Netanyahu” on the Watergate Hotel and hung banners with similar messages around the city, including the Capitol.
Security response
US agencies have increased security at the Watergate Hotel due to large mobs of protesters. Videos on social media show demonstrators outside the hotel chanting, “Allahu Akbar! Hamas!” and other incendiary slogans. Protesters also carried banners reading “WAR CRIMINAL STAYS HERE” and made noise late into the night.
Netanyahu’s visit was arranged weeks ago by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson. Anti-Israel groups, including Act Now to Stop War and End Racism, Jewish Voice for Peace, Code Pink, the US Palestinian Community Network, and others, have been organizing protests against his speech at the Joint Session of Congress.
Official reactions
US Capitol Police confirmed the arrests, stating that the protesters were charged with “Crowding, Obstructing or Incommoding.” The incident has led to a broader discussion on the balance between protest rights and security in sensitive political contexts.