In response to the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) devastating attacks in the Gaza Strip, protests have taken place outside the White House in Washington, D.C. Pro-Palestinian activists have called on the Trump administration to take necessary steps to restore peace in Gaza.
During the demonstration, protesters chanted slogans demanding an end to U.S. arms sales to Israel and the cessation of Israel’s occupation in Gaza and the West Bank. Many participants wore keffiyehs, traditional Palestinian scarves, and carried placards with messages such as “Stop all U.S. aid to Israel,” “We want an independent Palestinian state,” and “Palestinians are dying from U.S.-sent bombs.”
The backdrop to these protests includes Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began in response to an unprovoked attack by Hamas fighters controlling the region in 2023. Following nearly 15 months of brutal conflict, a ceasefire was declared in Gaza on January 19, facilitated by the mediation efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Iraq.
The January 19 agreement was divided into three phases. The first phase involved the exchange of hostages held by Hamas for prisoners in Israeli jails, along with the provision of food and humanitarian aid to Gaza. The second phase stipulated that Hamas would release all remaining hostages and that Israel would completely withdraw its military forces from Gaza.
The initial phase lasted six weeks and has recently concluded. However, complications have arisen regarding the second phase, with Hamas demanding the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, while Israel hesitates to withdraw its forces due to security concerns.
Recently, Hamas returned the bodies of four dual citizens, including Eden Alexander, an Israeli soldier with U.S. citizenship. Israel accused Hamas of intentionally killing them, a claim that Hamas has denied.
Amidst this tension, Israeli forces resumed military operations in Gaza on Monday night, resulting in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians.
In a statement yesterday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked that this military action is just the “beginning” and that any future discussions with Hamas will occur amid ongoing conflict.
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