Protesters condemned US support for Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, accusing Blinken of war crimes.
"Blinken, you will be remembered as the butcher of Gaza," one protester shouted while being removed by Capitol police. "You will be remembered for murdering innocent Palestinians."
The Secretary of State's testimony was halted at least four times as demonstrators called attention to the US’s role in the conflict. Protesters described the Israeli invasion as "sick" and "deranged," repeatedly labeling Blinken a "war criminal."
"Stop the genocide! Stop the genocide! Stop the genocide!" chanted an elderly protester as she was escorted out of the room. Another demonstrator claimed, "The blood of 40,000 people is on your hands. The blood of 40,000 Palestinians is on your hand."
Blinken’s appearance before the Senate committee comes amid Israel's war on Gaza, now in its eighth month. The conflict has resulted in widespread devastation and mass displacement in Gaza. Since the Israeli offensive began in October, more than 35,600 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed, and nearly 79,900 others have been injured.
Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In January, the ICJ issued an interim ruling stating that it is "plausible" Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, ordering Tel Aviv to halt such actions and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza’s civilians.
Despite the ICJ ruling, the conflict continues unabated, and aid deliveries remain insufficient amidst the escalating humanitarian crisis in the coastal enclave. (ILKHA)