Protests Erupt Across U.S. Against Military Aid to Israel Amid Escalating Conflict

Protesters in multiple U.S. cities demonstrated against American military support for Israel, citing concerns over escalating conflict in the Middle East. Demonstrations organized by the ANSWER coalition took place in New York, Washington, and other cities, calling for an arms embargo. Israel defends its actions as self-defense, while U.S. support remains steadfast despite criticism.

Protesters gathered in several U.S. cities on Tuesday to voice their opposition to American military support for Israel, amid rising tensions and the potential for a broader Middle Eastern conflict. Activists, led by the ANSWER coalition, called for an arms embargo against Israel, highlighting the role of U.S. weapons in the ongoing violence.

In New York's Herald Square, demonstrators held banners with messages including "Hands off Lebanon now" and "no U.S.-Israeli war on Lebanon." Chants such as "Hands off the Middle East" and "Free Palestine" reverberated through the square, criticizing figures like President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Similar, albeit smaller, protests took place near the White House in Washington, with participants braving rain to voice their discontent. The ANSWER coalition accused the U.S. government of enabling what it called genocide in Gaza, and protests unfolded in other cities including San Francisco, Seattle, and Phoenix. The situation draws concern as the conflict might destabilize the region further.

(With inputs from agencies.)