Demonstrators gather outside the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, condemning Israel as a "terrorist state" and calling for an end to US funding while demanding a ceasefire deal.
As the Democratic National Convention drew to a close in Chicago, anti-Israel protesters took to the streets, voicing their anger and demanding a change in US policy towards the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The demonstrators, many of whom concealed their faces, marched towards the United Center, where Vice President Kamala Harris was poised to accept the party's nomination for president.
Led by activist group Healing Our Homeland, the anti-Israel protestors distributed flyers with slogans such as "Globalize the Intifada," a call to spread the Palestinian uprising beyond the occupied territories. "Israel is a terrorist state," one protestor declared through a bullhorn, while another asserted that the Democrats were complicit in a "genocide" of the Palestinian people.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt at DNC, Demand Ceasefire and End to US Aid
Amid the anti-Israel demonstrators, other groups emerged with their own causes. Pro-life activists denounced abortion, while others protested against corporations and former President Trump. However, the anti-Israel sentiment dominated the scene, with nearly all groups voicing their strong opposition to Israel.
The protestors demanded an immediate ceasefire and an end to US military aid to Israel, which they believe has fueled the violence. "The fact is that the policy that we're actively seeking is a ceasefire deal," said protestor Cole Bennett. "That means nothing when you have the ability to turn off the aid and turn off the bombs to Israel. They could do that tomorrow and they should."
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt at DNC, Demand Ceasefire and End to US Aid
Evan, another protestor, held a sign demanding that President Biden "Be a Man and Save the Kids" and "Withhold Arms." He argued that a ceasefire should be enforced and that Biden's failure to do so could cost him support in the upcoming election.
As the protest progressed, some demonstrators engaged in more extreme actions. Anti-Israel groups near the United Center burned American flags in a symbolic act of defiance.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt at DNC, Demand Ceasefire and End to US Aid
The anti-Israel protests underscore the rising tensions between the Democratic Party and some of its progressive supporters, who believe that the party's support for Israel undermines its commitment to human rights and international justice. The demonstrations also highlight the ongoing challenges in finding a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which continues to divide both communities and the international community.
Vice President Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic nomination on Thursday night, pledging to work towards a more just and equitable world. However, her stance on Israel remains a source of contention for some within the party. Whether her policies can address the concerns of the anti-Israel protesters remains to be seen.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt at DNC, Demand Ceasefire and End to US Aid
