In the US, tensions over the Israel Hamas War have escalated tonight, with hundreds of protesters gathering at the Port of Tacoma in Washington. They are blocking a military vessel that they believe is carrying US military aid to Israel. This same cargo ship was also blocked a few days ago in Oakland when demonstrators chained themselves to the ship’s ladders. They attempted to stop the ship from moving by calling on the workers and those on the ship to stand on the right side of history.
However, when the ship started to move, the community took it upon themselves to occupy the ship, proclaiming “Long Live Palestine.” On Sunday, crowds of pro-Palestinian supporters marched through the nation’s capital. Police say the demonstration was mostly peaceful, but at night, some protesters began banging on the White House gates and even climbing them. Handprints in red paint were left behind, and a nearby statue was vandalized.
The US Secret Service reports that no arrests were made. In Philadelphia, a moment at an Eagles game went viral when George Norcross, a well-known New Jersey businessman and Democratic party organizer, was ejected from the game after displaying an American Israeli flag from his suite. The Philadelphia Eagles declined to comment on the situation, but the stadium’s policy prohibits signs, banners, or similar items that are obscene, indecent, or offensive to other patrons, or that contain commercial messages, logos, or political endorsements. Norcross questioned why his flag was not allowed and threatened to sue. Meanwhile, violence has erupted on college campuses across the country.
Police in California are investigating a possible hate crime after an Arab Muslim Stanford student was hit by a car on campus and sent to the hospital. The victim says the driver yelled derogatory remarks before speeding off. The university called the incident profoundly disturbing. In another incident, a University of Massachusetts Amer student pleaded not guilty after allegedly assaulting another student at a rally in solidarity with the hostages held by Hamas.
The surge in violence and threats on college campuses has left students on both sides of the conflict feeling on edge. With these events unfolding, it is important for people to understand that the Jewish people are hurting. They have shown resilience through their history, but that does not mean they are unaffected or not upset.
Fear is prevalent, with some individuals being targeted and silenced. It is crucial to continue following breaking news and stay updated through the NBC News app or on social media..
