Pro-Palestine activists mobilize for massive protests during Netanyahu's US visit

As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to address a joint session of the US Congress on July 24 and meet President Joe Biden, pro-Palestine activists are organizing a large-scale protest in the US capital on Wednesday. The planned demonstrations reflect growing discontent with US foreign policy towards Israel, particularly in light of recent conflicts.

The protests are expected to draw a substantial number of participants, prompting US police authorities to enhance security measures. Despite these preparations, officials have reported no specific threats, according to Reuters.

The backdrop of these demonstrations is the recent escalation in Gaza, where, according to Gaza health authorities, at least 38,983 Palestinians have lost their lives. The conflict has also displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. President Biden, while endorsing cease-fire talks, has maintained unwavering military support for Israel.

This surge in violence was triggered by Hamas’ raid on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of over 250 hostages, as reported by Israeli authorities.

A diverse coalition of groups is spearheading the protest efforts. This includes ANSWER (“Act Now to Stop War and End Racism”), the women-led peace and human rights organization CodePink, Palestinian advocacy groups such as the Palestinian American Community Center, and Jewish organizations including Jewish Voice for Peace. Organizers have arranged transportation for human rights advocates from various states to converge in Washington, ensuring a robust turnout.

The protest is part of a broader movement that has seen significant actions across the country. In May, pro-Palestinian demonstrators at Columbia University faced arrests after occupying an academic building for nearly two weeks. The university’s president, Minouche Shafik, requested police presence on campus until after graduation to maintain order and prevent the re-establishment of protest encampments.

As Netanyahu’s visit draws near, the planned demonstrations in Washington D.C. underscore the intense and ongoing debate over US support for Israel and the broader implications for peace and human rights in the region.