With the temporary pause in the Gaza war set to expire, activists and progressive Congress members gathered outside the White House in a passionate plea to stop the bloodshed. Advocates calling for a ceasefire in Gaza were overcome with emotion as they read the names of Palestinians killed in the conflict, highlighting the urgent need for a permanent resolution. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, along with actors Cynthia Nixon and Denee Benton, took turns reading from a long list of names, representing a fraction of the more than 15,000 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks. The activists warned that if the current truce is allowed to expire without a permanent ceasefire in place, the list of casualties would only continue to grow.
The vigil, organized by activists, state lawmakers, and artists, coincided with a hunger strike in Washington, DC, demonstrating solidarity with those advocating for peace in Gaza. Congresswoman Tlaib and her colleagues emphasized that the war in Gaza must come to an end, asserting that a temporary pause in fighting is insufficient. Tlaib called on President Joe Biden to heed the calls for a ceasefire, which is supported by the majority of Americans and an overwhelming majority of Democrats, according to public opinion polls.
Tlaib, the only Palestinian American member of Congress, criticized the White House for labeling lawmakers who demanded a ceasefire early in the war as “repugnant.” She condemned the bombing of innocent civilians and children, as well as the refusal to support a ceasefire and end the violence. Tlaib also highlighted President Biden’s request for additional funding for Israel’s war efforts, on top of the already substantial annual support provided by the US.
Leading human rights groups and Pope Francis have also called for a ceasefire in Gaza, underscoring the widespread demand for an end to the violence. Congresswoman Cori Bush, who introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives last month demanding a ceasefire, expressed optimism about the progress the campaign has made. She noted that the number of lawmakers supporting the resolution has grown from 13 to over 40, reflecting the global desire for peace.
President Biden’s recent social media post, suggesting that the violence would only benefit Hamas and advocating for Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace, sparked speculations about a potential shift in the US’s stance. However, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby reaffirmed the US’s support for Israel’s war efforts, emphasizing its responsibility to eliminate Hamas.
The war on Gaza began on October 7, triggered by Hamas’ attack on southern Israel, which resulted in Israeli casualties and captives. Hamas cited Israel’s illegal settlement expansion, mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners, and incursions at Al-Aqsa mosque as reasons for their assault. In response, Israel launched a relentless bombing campaign and a ground invasion into Gaza, leading to widespread destruction and severe humanitarian consequences. The conflict has displaced over one million Palestinians and raised concerns among United Nations experts about the risk of genocide.
Despite the Biden administration’s initial support for Israel’s objectives, the country has yet to achieve its goal of destroying Hamas after seven weeks of fighting. A temporary truce was brokered by Qatar, the US, and Egypt to facilitate the release of hostages and humanitarian aid, but the deadline is approaching. Outside the White House, Congressman Jamaal Bowman expressed disbelief at living through a genocide condoned and perpetuated by the US government. Congressman Jonathan Jackson echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to end the suffering and bloodshed.
As the deadline looms, the plea for a ceasefire in Gaza grows louder, with activists and lawmakers striving to reach a shared humanity and bring an end to the devastating conflict.
