Demonstrations have erupted globally in response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Many protests are urging the Israeli government to cease its airstrikes in Gaza, citing over 10,000 civilian casualties. Activists are also expressing frustration with President Joe Biden’s endorsement of Israel, recently conveying their message at the White House.
This past Saturday, November 4, a multitude of protesters paraded through the streets of Washington, DC, denouncing the ongoing war. They held placards with messages such as “Free Palestine” and “Ceasefire Now, Let Gaza Live.” Additionally, the demonstrators adorned monuments across the city with Palestinian signs and flags.
BREAKING: Pro-Palestine protesters appear to be threatening to storm through the White House fences and are threatening Secret Service agents.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 5, 2023
Multiple video angles show hundreds of angry protesters up against the White House fence.
They also threw red paint on the fence as… pic.twitter.com/zt3092X79x
As night fell, the protesters congregated near the White House. In the early hours of Sunday morning, footage depicted activists attempting to scale the fences surrounding the president’s residence. They splattered red paint on the fence, labeling President Biden as “Genocide Joe.” There are also reports of protesters hurling objects at Secret Service agents who were stationed to protect the White House.
The rapper Macklemore, born Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, participated in the march as well. He mentioned conducting personal research and forming the opinion that Israel is engaged in genocide against the Palestinian population.
An adult male was apprehended by the Metropolitan Police Department amidst the protests. The department released a statement indicating that the arrest was made on charges of property destruction. The press release further mentioned several minor instances of property damage and vandalism, notably at the McPherson Square Metro Station and police vehicles.
Acting Chief Pamela A. Smith addressed the protest, emphasizing that the department manages numerous demonstrations annually and upholds Americans’ right to express their First Amendment rights safely and peacefully. The Israeli Embassy in DC also reported instances of antisemitic graffiti, including the message “Death to Israel,” being written on buildings in the city.
