In a shocking move that has ignited widespread outrage, pro-Palestinian groups, including anti-Zionist Orthodox Jews, are planning massive protests outside the White House in Washington, D.C., as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with U.S. President Donald Trump. The protests are a direct response to Netanyahu’s controversial leadership during Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza, which many critics have labeled as war crimes.
The demonstrations, set for Tuesday, will not only target the White House but also the Blair House, where Netanyahu is expected to stay. Protesters are demanding the arrest of the Israeli leader, who faces charges from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged atrocities in Gaza. “This man should not be welcomed — he should be arrested,” said CodePink, one of the groups organizing the protests. With protesters pledging to remain outside Blair House 24/7, their message is clear: Netanyahu’s presence in Washington is a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence in Gaza.
This is not Netanyahu’s first visit to the U.S. during the devastating conflict. In July 2024, similar protests erupted outside the U.S. Congress, demanding an end to U.S. military aid to Israel as Congressmen gave Netanyahu a hero’s welcome. The latest protests come as Netanyahu prepares to meet with Trump, a key ally, to discuss Israel’s so-called “victory” over Hamas, as well as efforts to counter Iran and negotiate the release of hostages.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has condemned the visit, stating that the meeting underscores U.S. complicity in Israel’s actions, which they argue amount to genocide. As reports surface of a potential $1 billion arms deal to Israel, the stakes of this high-profile meeting have never been higher, and the tragic situation in Gaza continues to fuel tensions in Washington and beyond.
