Hundreds of anti-Israel demonstrators descended upon Washington, D.C., to protest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress, resulting in clashes with police and multiple arrests. Federal charges have been filed against several individuals, while local prosecutors decline to pursue charges against others.
Hundreds of anti-Israel protesters gathered in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday to denounce Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress. The protest, marked by heated confrontations with police, resulted in the arrest of numerous individuals.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in D.C. During Netanyahu's Congressional Address
At least eight individuals associated with the protest now face federal criminal charges, including attempted possession of a dangerous weapon, assault on a police officer, attempted theft, and threats. However, the D.C. attorney general's office has dropped less serious charges against several other arrested protesters.
Federal prosecutors have charged Frederick Coates, Crow Momamome, and Antonio Somerville with attempting to carry a dangerous weapon. Zachary Kam faces two counts of assault on a police officer. Nathaniel Lawrence, Sonia Krishan, and Roger Miller have been charged with attempted theft. And Essa Ejelat has been charged with threats.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in D.C. During Netanyahu's Congressional Address
In addition to the federal charges, there are five pending citation cases for "crowding, obstructing, or incommoding" for which prosecutors have yet to decide on charges.
During the protest, at least one demonstrator was seen carrying a flag representing the terrorist group Hamas. Others shouted "Allahu Akbar." At Union Station, protesters burned an American flag and vandalized a statue with the words "Hamas is coming." American flags were replaced with Palestinian flags.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in D.C. During Netanyahu's Congressional Address
The White House condemned the protests, with Vice President Kamala Harris denouncing the "despicable acts" and "dangerous hate-filled rhetoric." She also condemned any individuals associating with Hamas, vowing not to tolerate such behavior.
Notably, federal prosecutors have not pursued charges of destroying government property against any of the arrested individuals. Under federal law, individuals convicted of damaging or attempting to damage government property valued at over $1,000 could face fines or up to ten years in prison.
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in D.C. During Netanyahu's Congressional Address
The D.C. attorney general's office has been responsible for prosecuting lower-level offenses related to the protest. The office declined to comment on the charging decisions, but officials noted that factors such as the ability to prove a case in court or an individual's prior record are considered when prosecutors exercise discretion.
