In recent days, several US cities have witnessed demonstrations against American military support for Israel, as concerns mount over potential escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Anti-war activists are calling for an arms embargo against the long-standing US ally.
On September 24, 2024, protesters gathered in New York City's Herald Square, a location named after the historic New York Herald newspaper. Demonstrators carried banners with messages such as "Hands off Lebanon now" and "No U.S.-Israeli war on Lebanon." The ANSWER coalition, an organization founded in 2001 following the September 11 attacks, coordinated these protests.
Chants echoed through the square, with protesters voicing slogans like "Hands off the Middle East," "Free Palestine," and criticisms of current and former US leaders as well as the Israeli Prime Minister. A smaller demonstration with similar themes occurred near the White House in Washington, D.C., which has served as the official residence for every US president since 1800.
The ANSWER coalition stated, "Israel's actions in Lebanon and Gaza are facilitated by the substantial supply of armaments from the U.S. government." The group reported that similar protests were organized in other cities, including San Francisco, known for its rich history of political activism, and Seattle, which gained notoriety for the 1999 "Battle of Seattle" anti-WTO protests.
These demonstrations come in the wake of recent escalations. On October 7, 2023, Hamas, a group founded in 1987 and considered a terrorist organization by several nations, launched an attack on Israel. This led to a prolonged conflict in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. The situation further intensified on September 23, 2024, when Israel began military operations in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shiite Islamist group established in 1982.
The US government has maintained its support for Israel throughout this period. In May 2024, President Biden reaffirmed the "ironclad" nature of US support for Israel, while also advocating for an immediate ceasefire. He rejected allegations of genocide in Gaza, a term first coined by Raphael Lemkin in 1944.
The ongoing conflict has raised international concerns, with the United Nations, founded in 1945 after World War II, placing the Middle East situation at the top of its agenda during recent member state meetings. The International Court of Justice, also established in 1945, has heard allegations of genocide against Israel, which the country denies.
As tensions continue to escalate, there are growing fears of a wider regional conflict that could destabilize the Middle East. The situation remains fluid, with international diplomacy efforts intensifying to prevent further escalation.
"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 U.S. government."
The protests and ongoing conflict underscore the complex nature of US-Israel relations, which date back to 1948 when the US recognized the newly-formed state of Israel. As the situation evolves, it continues to be a focal point of international attention and debate.