Capitol Police clash with violent Palestinian protesters outside DNC headquarters
Misty Severi
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The United States Capitol Police made arrests outside of the Democratic National Committee’s headquarters in Washington D.C. on Wednesday night. The arrests came after a crowd of 150 illegal and “violent protesters,” gathered outside of the building.
It is not clear how many of the protesters have been arrested, but they appeared to call for a ceasefire and support Palestinians in the war between Hamas and Israel, according to Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA).
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“Was just evacuated from the DNC after pro-terrorist, anti-Israel protestors grew violent, pepper spraying police officers and attempting to break into the building,” Sherman posted to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
“Thankful to the police officers who stopped them and for helping me and my colleagues get out safely. Apparently, these pro-#Hamas demonstrators want #Republicans to prevail in the next Congressional election.”
Approximately seven members of Congress were inside the DNC when they were evacuated from the building by “heavily armed and serious” U.S. Capitol Police officers, Sherman told ABC News.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA) and Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA) were inside of the DNC on Wednesday night, but Sherman said Jefferies and Clark had left by the time protests started breaking out. The House office buildings were also shut down and evacuated over the unrest, but they have since resumed normal operations, sources have confirmed to the Washington Examiner.
Six Capitol Police officers were hurt in the incident.
Washington D.C.’s Metropolitan Police has confirmed the activities and said it is assisting the Capitol Police with the situation. Residents have been told to stay away from the area for the time being.
“Right now our officers are working to keep back approximately 150 people who are illegally and violently protesting in the area of Canal Street and Ivy Street, SE. Officers are making arrests. All Members have been evacuated from the area. Please stay away from the area,” Capitol Police said in a statement.
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The riot comes a day after hundreds of thousands pro-Israel supporters peacefully rallied on the National Mall on Tuesday.
Emily Jacobs has contributed to this story.