Democrats' national headquarters becomes the site of a violent protest against the ceasefire

A clash between police and protesters took place outside the Democratic Party's national headquarters, resulting in the evacuation of numerous lawmakers. The organizers, who were calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, were accused of gathering "illegally and violently" by officials. Protesters claimed that they were provoked by police in riot gear who moved towards them without warning. Six officers were injured, and one protester was arrested during the incident, which occurred on the steps of the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington DC. About 150 demonstrators outside the event chanted "ceasefire now," prompting Capitol Police to intervene and block the building's entrance and exit. Protesters alleged that the policing became aggressive, while video footage showed them shouting and screaming as the police restrained them. A demonstrator from Philadelphia criticized the use of violence against peaceful protesters, mentioning instances of police pulling disabled or chronically ill individuals to the ground. Conversely, officers claimed that they were pepper sprayed and punched by those in the crowd. Inside the building, police swiftly guided lawmakers to safety, with increased security measures being implemented since pipe bombs were discovered at the Democratic and Republican Party headquarters during the Capitol riot on 6 January 2021. Congressman Brad Sherman relayed on social media that he was evacuated from the DNC after protesters grew violent, pepper spraying police officers, and attempting to break into the building. This incident is the latest in a series of demonstrations across the US reflecting increasing tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict. Pro-Israel protesters had assembled at the National Mall on Tuesday, requesting the release of hostages held by Hamas. While many demonstrations have called for a US-backed ceasefire, President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has resisted the idea, while Republicans on Capitol Hill have outright rejected it. The conflict began when the militant group Hamas entered Israel in October, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and over 200 kidnappings. In response, Israel has reported killing more than 11,000 individuals in Gaza, as reported by the Hamas-run health ministry.