Jewish-American activists storm US Capitol demanding Gaza ceasefire
Progressive Jewish-American protesters took their peace plea straight to Congress by staging a dramatic sit-in inside the US Capitol today. Hundreds had already gathered outside the building, ramping up calls for an immediate halt to the Gaza conflict.
Jewish Voice for Peace leads the charge
Following a similar protest near the White House, the advocacy group Jewish Voice for Peace took to social media to declare: “Hundreds of American Jews are holding a sit-in at Congress — and we won’t leave until Congress calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.” Among the 350+ protesters were two dozen rabbis leading a prayerful resistance.
Video footage shows activists passionately chanting “Peace right now,” demanding politicians prioritise diplomacy and de-escalation. The sit-in highlights the growing determination within the Jewish-American community to end violence in the Middle East.
Israel police chief threatens Gaza sympathisers
In a chilling response, Israeli police commissioner Kobi Shabtai warned those supporting Palestinians: “Whoever wants to become an Israeli citizen, welcome… Anyone who wants to identify with Gaza is welcome. I will put him on the buses heading there now.” His words spark fresh debate on freedom of expression and protest rights in Israel.
Global protests face crackdowns
- In Bahrain, a small demonstration backing Gaza was swiftly crushed by police. Activists called for cutting diplomatic ties with Israel and expelling its ambassador.
- The Bahrain Center for Human Rights shared footage exposing the harsh crackdown, underscoring the conflict’s worldwide impact and the diverse voices demanding justice for Palestinians.
Rising Palestinian death toll paints grim picture
Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qudra revealed devastating casualty figures since October 7: At least 3,478 Palestinians killed by Israeli air raids, with over 12,000 injured. Shockingly, 70 percent of the victims are children and elderly. An estimated 1,300 people, including 600 children, remain missing under the rubble.
The sit-ins and protests worldwide underline one urgent demand: an end to the bloodshed in Gaza. The question remains—will lawmakers listen?