Pro-Palestinian demonstrators stormed the U.S. Capitol, occupying the Cannon Rotunda within the Capitol complex in a protest advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. The protest, featuring chants of “ceasefire,” drew attention as it took place in a congressional office building. U.S. Capitol Police were called in to clear the crowd, with several individuals detained during the event. The protest was attended by Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who had previously made disputed claims about Israel’s actions in Gaza. The contrasting treatment of the January 6, 2021, protesters in the Capitol, who faced severe consequences for non-violent offenses, is noted in comparison to past left-wing demonstrations. FBI Director Christopher Wray labeled the Capitol riot “domestic terrorism,” while this pro-Palestinian protests seem to support terrorism against Israelis and Americans as a ceasefire could potentially allow Hamas to avoid consequences for their actions.
