Protests Erupt in Washington Over Israel's War in Gaza

Thousands of protesters, expressing outrage over Israel's war in Gaza, marched toward the U.S. Capitol as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Congress. Police deployed pepper spray, arrested around 200 individuals, and fortified security around the Capitol. Demonstrators demanded a cease-fire and criticized U.S. support of Israel.

Police deployed pepper spray Wednesday as a large crowd protesting Israel's war in Gaza marched towards the U.S. Capitol, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was speaking to Congress.

Thousands of protesters descended on Washington, chanting 'Free, Free Palestine' as they tried to block streets ahead of Netanyahu's speech. Police, wearing gas masks, blocked the crowd from approaching the Capitol. U.S. Capitol Police reported some crowd members had become 'violent' and did not comply with orders to step back.

'We are deploying pepper spray towards anyone trying to break the law and cross that line,' stated Capitol Police. Demonstrators carried signs demanding the arrest of Netanyahu and the end of U.S. aid to Israel.

(With inputs from agencies.)