Pro-Palestine protests
A large number of supporters of Palestine gathered at the Capitol Hill complex on October 19 and staged a protest. The Pro-Palestinian protesters called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Hundreds arrested
More than 300 people were arrested for illegally demonstrating and three people were charged with assaulting police after protesters descended on Capitol Hill building demanding a ceasefire.
Protesters urged for ceasefire
Hundreds of demonstrators from Jewish advocacy groups, such as Jewish Voice for Peace and If Not Now, poured into the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill.
'Let Gaza free'
Protesters led by Rabbis
Protesters were led by about 25 Rabbis (a Jewish scholar or teacher) reading testimonials from Palestinians in Gaza and reciting prayers. Outside, hundreds more chanted, “Ceasefire now” and sang in Hebrew and English.
'Illegal protests'
Arrested protesters were released later
The 305 people arrested for illegally demonstrating were subsequently released and those charged with assault were held in custody pending an appearance before a judge, Capitol police said.
Protest erupted in the aftermath of an explosion in Gaza hospital
The rally occurred in the aftermath of the previous day’s explosion at al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza, which killed hundreds of civilians. Israel was originally blamed for the strike, but US and Israeli officials have contested that report, saying it was more likely a failed rocket fired by a militant group within Palestine.
Frequent protests
The gathering at the Capitol came just two days after a rally near the White House on Monday that the Jewish Voice for Peace executive director, Stefanie Fox, estimated drew at least 5,000 people.
'Not in my name'
Protesters held a banner with red writing that said, “Our blood is the same color,” waved Palestinian flags, and raised posters that read, “My grief is not your weapon,” “Never again for anyone” and “Zionism is racism.”
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