Netanyahu facing 'day of rage' in Washington, protesters say

In Washington, a significant event is unfolding as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to address Congress. This visit comes at a time of heightened tensions due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and it has sparked a planned protest dubbed a 'day of rage' by pro-Palestinian activists. Organizers are anticipating that thousands of demonstrators will gather in the city to voice their opposition to Netanyahu's presence, asserting that leaders like him, whom they accuse of war crimes, should not be welcomed in the United States. Netanyahu's visit marks his first trip outside of Israel since the Israel-Hamas conflict erupted, and he has stated that he intends to present what he describes as the truth about Israel's 'just war. ' He received an invitation from Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to deliver his address to Congress, but Johnson has cautioned that any protests within the House chamber will not be tolerated, warning that arrests could occur if necessary. Despite these warnings, protest organizers are determined to fill the streets with their demonstrations. Reem Assil, a member of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center, is traveling from California to participate in the protest. She expressed her deep anger over the loss of family members and other civilians in what she termed the 'mass slaughter' in Gaza. Assil stated, 'The idea of the man responsible for these atrocities being allowed to come here channels my rage. ' She has experienced the grief of losing over 40 family members and feels a strong commitment to advocate for her people. This protest represents a crucial moment for her and many others who share her sentiments. The conflict in Gaza began on October 7 when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 251 Israelis and foreigners. In response, the Hamas-run health ministry reports that more than 39,000 Palestinians have lost their lives due to Israeli military actions. Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris during his visit, as well as with Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Jinan Deena, a Palestinian-American from the Washington area, expressed her feelings about Netanyahu's visit, saying, 'To know he is going to be sharing air with us in our own city. it's like a slap in the face. ' Another protest organizer from Michigan, who chose to remain anonymous, noted that there seems to be a greater willingness among protesters to face arrest this time compared to previous demonstrations. In October, over 300 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested for gathering unlawfully inside and outside the U. S. Capitol complex. In January, an estimated 400,000 people gathered in Washington to protest against the war. Ayah, an organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement, remarked that while previous protests have conveyed a sense of anger, this particular protest feels distinct because they view Netanyahu as their primary adversary being invited into the White House. The protests in Washington are a continuation of the strong emotions surrounding the Gaza conflict, which has seen numerous demonstrations since the war began. Netanyahu is facing mounting pressure both internationally and domestically regarding his handling of the war. His trip to the U. S. follows a ruling by the International Court of Justice declaring Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories as 'illegal,' a ruling that Israel firmly rejects. Additionally, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has sought arrest warrants for Netanyahu and senior Hamas leaders, alleging war crimes committed by both sides. Netanyahu has condemned this application as a 'complete distortion of reality,' arguing that it equates Israel with the 'mass murderers of Hamas. ' In Israel, public sentiment is turning against Netanyahu, with a recent poll indicating that 72% of Israelis believe he should resign due to security failures on October 7 and the ongoing hostage crisis. Among those traveling from Israel to protest is Maya Roman, whose cousin was held captive for 54 days after being kidnapped by Hamas. She expressed her frustration, stating that Netanyahu is 'leaving behind' hostages and neglecting the urgent need for a ceasefire deal that would secure their release. 'By leaving without a signed deal, he makes the hostages and the families feel abandoned,' she said. On the other side of the issue, pro-Israel protesters are also expected to be present in Washington. Ira Stoll, a Jewish-American with family in Israel, expressed his support for Netanyahu's visit, stating that America should demonstrate its solidarity with its allies. He believes that Netanyahu is the elected leader of an important friend to the United States. The upcoming protests in Washington are anticipated to be significant, reflecting the deep divisions and strong emotions surrounding the ongoing conflict.