TO UPDATE: Capitol Police said six officers were treated for injuries “ranging from minor cuts to pepper spray and beatings.”
In a statement, the police said one person was arrested for assaulting a government official.
“We thank our officers who stopped these illegal and violent protesters and protected everyone in the area,” the police statement said.
Shortly after 10 p.m. ET, Capitol Police said normal operations resumed in all House buildings.
EARLIER: Protesters protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza clashed with police outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, DC this evening, forcing the closure of nearby House of Representatives office buildings.
The protesters are calling for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. There were reports that they blocked the entrance to the DNC while police tried to disperse the crowd.
“Currently, our officers are working to stop approximately 150 people who are illegally and violently protesting in the area of Canal Street and Ivy Street, SE. Officers make arrests. All members were evacuated from the area. Please stay away from the area,” Capitol Police said in a statement.
Capitol Police also temporarily restricted entry and exit to the House office buildings.
Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), whose district includes the San Fernando Valley area, wrote on X/Twitter that he was vacated from the DNC.
He wrote: “Just got evacuated #DNC according to pro-terrorism, anti-#Israel Protesters turned into violent police officers, sprayed them with pepper spray and tried to break into the building. I am grateful to the police officers who stopped them and helped me and my colleagues to get out safely.”
But David Weigel of Semafor wrote on X/Twitter that the protesters blocked the entrances, but did not try to storm the offices. Weigel also posted a video of the scene.
Protests in Washington DC have been ongoing since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas. Hundreds were arrested last month for protesting outside the Cannon office building to demand a truce.
Tens of thousands of protesters gathered on the National Mall on Tuesday to support Israel and denounce anti-Semitism.
Source: Deadline
Elizabeth Cabrera is an author and journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a talent for staying up-to-date on the latest news and trends, Elizabeth is dedicated to delivering informative and engaging articles that keep readers informed on the latest developments.
