Around 300 individuals were arrested by Capitol Police during a large-scale protest at the U.S. Capitol complex against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Most of the arrests took place for demonstrating within the Capitol building. Protesters had assembled both inside and outside the complex, demanding an end to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Organized by a left-wing Jewish group, some demonstrators entered the Cannon House Office Building and congregated in the rotunda. This follows a similar protest at the White House earlier in the week, resulting in numerous arrests.
Protesters can legally enter the Capitol complex but may face issues if they cause disturbances, according to a police spokesperson. Police departments from neighboring areas, including the Metropolitan Police of Washington and officers from Virginia, were called in to assist at the complex. Some lawmakers expressed disapproval of the demonstrators, with Rep. Ryan Zinke stating that the US Constitution protects their right to protest, even if they are viewed as “absolute idiots.” These events signify the growing dissent against the Israel-Hamas war and the continued efforts of activists to raise their voices against the conflict.
Overall, approximately 300 people were arrested at the U.S. Capitol complex during a demonstration against the Israel-Hamas war. Protesters gathered in and outside the complex, urging an end to the conflict and calling for peace. The protest was organized by a left-wing Jewish group and involved demonstrators entering the Cannon House Office Building and assembling in the rotunda. This protest follows a similar event at the White House, indicating a pattern of dissent against the ongoing war. Despite the arrests, demonstrators can legally enter the Capitol complex as long as they do not cause disturbances.