Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his country’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza as protesters rallied outside the US Congress in support of the Palestinian people. The conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly two weeks, has resulted in hundreds of deaths and widespread destruction in the region.
Netanyahu, speaking during a virtual address to the US Congress, emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks from the militant group Hamas. He called the group a “terrorist organization” and said that Israel’s military operation was aimed at stopping Hamas from launching rockets into Israeli territory.
The Israeli leader also accused Hamas of using civilians as human shields, a claim that has been disputed by international human rights organizations. Netanyahu claimed that Israel was taking every precaution to avoid civilian casualties, but acknowledged that “unfortunately, there will always be unintended consequences of war.”
Meanwhile, outside the US Congress, protesters gathered to voice their opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. They held signs reading “Free Palestine” and “End the Occupation,” and chanted slogans calling for an end to the violence.
Many of the protesters criticized the US government for its continued support of Israel, with some calling for an end to the billions of dollars in military aid that the US provides to the country each year. They also called on the international community to take action to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and bring about a lasting peace in the region.
The conflict in Gaza has sparked widespread international condemnation, with calls for an immediate ceasefire coming from world leaders and humanitarian organizations. The United Nations has warned of a “full-scale war” if the violence continues unchecked, and has called for both sides to show restraint and respect international humanitarian law.
As the conflict rages on, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for an end to the violence and a path towards a lasting peace in the region. Netanyahu’s defense of Israel’s military actions may have satisfied some, but for the protesters outside the US Congress and many others around the world, the calls for justice and peace in Gaza continue to grow louder.