Supporters of Israel Rally in Washington, Express Solidarity in Fight Against Hamas and Call for Peace
Washington, D.C. – Tens of thousands of supporters of Israel gathered on the National Mall in an impressive show of solidarity in the fight against Hamas and a resounding call for peace. The March for Israel, marked by heavy security measures, aimed to endorse one of America’s closest allies amidst growing criticism over Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
The rally saw prominent figures from both sides of the political spectrum come together in a united front. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jefferies, and Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa joined hands on stage to affirm their support for Israel. Amidst the wave of unity, however, there remains a sharp divide among Democrats regarding Israel’s course and its treatment of Palestinians.
President Joe Biden has recently called for Israel to exercise restraint in its tactics to alleviate civilian suffering in Gaza. While the President had initially voiced unwavering solidarity with Israel in the early weeks of the conflict, he is now urging a shift in approach.
The speakers at the rally vehemently denounced the Hamas attack and expressed concern over the global rise of antisemitism, labeling it an embarrassment to all civilized people and nations. Israeli President Isaac Herzog, addressing the crowd via video from the Western Wall in Jerusalem, emphasized the importance of unity and declared, Never again.
The brutality of Hamas did not go unnoticed among the speakers. Senator Ernst condemned their actions, stating that they murder babies, rape women, and abuse the elderly. She expressed disbelief that anyone in America could sympathize with such terrorists.
The tensions between Israel and Hamas escalated on October 7th when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel from Gaza. The incursion resulted in over 1,200 casualties and the capture of more than 200 hostages. In response, Israel launched a series of attacks in Gaza, resulting in the loss of over 11,000 Palestinian lives according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry.
Rachel Goldberg, the mother of one of the hostages, expressed the anguish experienced by the families of those taken captive. She called attention to the diverse range of individuals comprising the hostages, representing different religions and backgrounds.
The Homeland Security Department designated the march as a level 1 security event, necessitating substantial law enforcement assistance from federal agencies. Although a joint bulletin from the FBI and Homeland Security warned of the potential for violence or attacks inspired by the Israel-Hamas conflict, no specific, actionable threats were identified.
The March for Israel was marked by a sea of Israeli and U.S. flags, with attendees donning flags as capes or holding them in their hands. Security measures were extensive, with police deployed throughout the area and even on horseback.
The rally aimed to show solidarity with Israel and raise awareness of the hostages still in danger. Attendees expressed concern for the civilian casualties in Gaza and reiterated that Israel had not initiated the war but was doing its best in a time of conflict.
As supporters of Israel gathered to express their unity and call for peace, the conflict continues to stir debate and divisions among politicians and individuals alike. With the hope for a resolution on the horizon, the world watches closely, hoping for an end to the violence and a path toward lasting peace.
