By Shofi Ahmed

US Jewish community stormed Capitol Hill in front of the White House boldly speaking out against President Biden’s perceived covering of Israel during the ongoing Gaza conflict. Despite facing hundreds of arrests during their demonstrations outside the White House and Congress, the activists remain unwavering in their pursuit of justice for Palestine and human rights. Some of them waving Palestinian flags – have accused Israel of preparing to commit genocide in Gaza in retaliation for the 7 October attacks by Hamas that killed more than 1,400 Israelis and resulted in nearly 200 being kidnapped.

The protesters express deep concern over the high civilian death toll and severe destruction caused by the Israeli airstrikes. They directly criticised President Joe Biden’s support for Israel, claiming that it provides a shield for the relentless bombing campaign.

The demonstrations have attracted attention from across the country, with protesters demanding an immediate ceasefire and an end to the violence in Gaza. They argue that the Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the killing of thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children, and have caused immense suffering and displacement.

Police detained about 400 demonstrators on Wednesday. The arrests followed a similar protest on Monday, when 50 activists were detained for blocking the gates of the White House. The events were organised jointly by Jewish Voice for Peace and IfNotNow, two leftist groups campaigning on an avowedly anti-Zionist and pro-Palestinian platform.

Brant Rosen, a rabbi from Los Angeles, delivered a powerful message on Wednesday to the demonstrators, proclaiming that they were witnessing one of the most significant moral moments of their lifetime. The rally occurred in the aftermath of the recent explosion at al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza, an incident that initially attributed blame to Israel and claimed the lives of numerous civilians.

The timing of these protests coincided with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s visit to Israel, where he reinforced the United Kingdom’s support for the Israeli government. Sunak’s visit during this critical period and his affirmation of support have drawn further scrutiny from international observers.

The contrast between the US Jewish protesters’ condemnation of Israel’s actions and President Biden’s support, compounded by Sunak’s reinforcement of support during his visit, highlights the diverging perspectives within the international community regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

While the US Jewish protesters denounce the Israeli assault and call for an immediate ceasefire, they also draw attention to the ethical responsibility of political leaders in supporting justice and condemning violence in the region. The protesters’ dissent reflects a growing sentiment among certain segments of the Jewish community, emphasising that criticising Israeli policies does not equate to being against the Jewish community.

The ongoing protests serve as a reminder of the importance of open dialogue, critical examination of policies, and the pursuit of justice in conflicts affecting civilian populations. They challenge political leaders to reevaluate their positions and advocate for a more balanced approach that addresses the rights and well-being of all those involved.

As the demonstrations gain momentum, they contribute to the global discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.