# Palestinian Flags Flown in US Capital with American Flags Burnt
Protesters voiced their anger concerning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress by setting fire to U.S. flags and hoisting Palestinian flags outside Union Station in Washington, D.C.
Netanyahu’s recent visit to Washington stirred up a series of intense protests from individuals against Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza. Earlier that day, protesters left maggots on a banquet table at Netanyahu’s hotel, while fountains throughout the city were dyed red like blood.
Protests escalated in the afternoon with a group near Washington’s train station exchanging American flags for Palestinian flags. Social media posts shared videos of the protesters burning an American flag and an effigy of Netanyahu, with some dancing in jubilation to music.
Gary M. Collins, a journalist for the conservative Sinclair Broadcast Group, tweeted about the incident, stating that anti-Israel demonstrators burned an effigy wrapped in an American flag outside Union Station. The effigy collapsed amidst loud cheers and joy as protesters danced around the flames. A man grabbed the burning flag, triggering a chase by a group of protesters.
Subsequently, the U.S. Park Police revoked the protest permit in the area, and Amtrak informed commuters of potential delays due to “protest activity.”
The conflict in Gaza erupted after Hamas initiated an attack on Israel, resulting in the death of around 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 250 individuals on October 7. Presently, about 120 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israeli authorities indicating that one-third might have perished.
Regarding Palestinians, over 39,000 individuals have died due to Israel’s military operations based on information from Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Please note that this is an evolving news story, and updates will be provided as more details are uncovered.