Thousands of protesters waving Palestinian flags gathered outside the Capitol as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaks to Congress.
Protesters protesting against the war in Gaza Strip, they came face to face with her use of pepper spray by police, reports the Associated Press.
![US: Thousands of protesters outside Capitol react to Netanyahu's speech 1 astynomia hpa](https://thegurumedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/astynomia_hpa.jpg)
US Capitol Police said in a post on X that some members of the crowd became “violent” and “disobeyed” orders to move away from the police line. “We are using pepper spray on anyone attempting to break the law and cross this line,” Capitol Police said.
US: Major Democrats boycott Netanyahu’s speech to Congress (live)
“Wanted War Criminal”
A tent decorated with banners, among other things, that called Netanyahu a “wanted war criminal” in reference to an arrest warrant that prosecutors at the International Criminal Court intend to issue. Netanyahu categorically denies the war crimes charges.
Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon took to the stage to condemn the death toll. “No one is free until everyone is free”Sarandon said.
Nearby, protesters placed almost 30 life-size cardboard coffins wrapped in Palestinian flags in memory of those killed in the Gaza war. Many roads near the Capitol were blocked and traffic was disrupted.
“I want all aid to Israel to be suspended because of their actions in Gaza,” said Bradley Callinan, who said he traveled to the rally from Columbus, Ohio, 400 miles away.
Sources: APE-MPE, Reuters, AP