US protests erupt over American support for Israel amid Middle East tensions
Protests broke out in several US cities on Tuesday, with demonstrators opposing American military support for Israel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In New York City’s Herald Square, dozens gathered, holding banners reading “Hands off Lebanon now” and “no US-Israeli war on Lebanon.” Protesters chanted slogans, including “Hands off the Middle East,” “Free Palestine,” and “Biden, Harris, Trump, and Bibi; none are welcome in our city.”
The ANSWER coalition group, which organized the protest, stated, “Israel’s attacks in Lebanon and the ongoing siege and genocide in Gaza are made possible by the huge amount of bombs, missiles, and warplanes provided by the US government.”
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Similar protests occurred near the White House in Washington, with demonstrations also planned in San Francisco, Seattle, San Antonio, and Phoenix.
Israel views its actions as self-defense against militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. The US has maintained support for Israel despite domestic and international criticism, with President Joe Biden previously describing US support as “ironclad” while calling for an immediate ceasefire.
The ongoing conflict has sparked months of protests across the US, with over 41,000 casualties in Gaza and allegations of genocide. Israel’s military assault on Gaza followed a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, killing around 1,200 people. Israel’s offensive in Lebanon has killed over 560 people, including 50 children, and wounded 1,800.
World leaders are meeting at the United Nations General Assembly to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
