On Tuesday, the U.S. Capitol Police arrested a group of pro-Palestinian protestors who had occupied the Cannon Rotunda. This incident occurred one day before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to address Congress.
The Capitol Police announced the arrests on the social platform X, stating, “We are arresting a group that is illegally demonstrating inside the Cannon Rotunda.
Demonstrations are not allowed inside the Congressional Buildings.” The police further mentioned that they had warned the demonstrators to stop, but when they did not comply, arrests were made.
Mitchell Rivard, Chief of Staff for Representative Dan Kildee, reported that the Michigan Democrat’s office had requested assistance from the Capitol Police due to disruptive protests outside their office. Rivard described the scene, noting that hundreds of protesters were violently beating on office doors, shouting, and attempting to force entry. The Capitol Police and Sergeant at Arms responded promptly, making several arrests. Kildee and his staff were reported safe.
Kildee has voiced concerns over the ongoing violence in Gaza, urging the Biden administration to withhold offensive weapons to Israel due to the humanitarian crisis. In an April statement, he expressed deep concern over the loss of life and displacement caused by Israeli military strikes.
Netanyahu’s upcoming speech to Congress has sparked significant controversy, with many Democrats planning to boycott due to his handling of the conflict with Hamas. Vice President Harris will not be present due to prior travel commitments.
By 4:30 p.m., the Capitol Police confirmed that the rotunda was clear of demonstrators and stated that the total number of arrests would be provided later that night.
