In an unprecedented act of protest, anti-Israel demonstrators unleashed maggots and mealworms inside the Watergate Hotel, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was staying. This incident occurred during Netanyahu's visit to Washington, D.C., for meetings with U.S. officials and to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
The protesters, organized by groups like UnXeptable and other Israeli expatriate organizations, have been rallying against Netanyahu's policies, particularly his judicial overhaul plans. They aimed to make their dissent impossible to ignore by Netanyahu and his entourage.
BREAKING: Maggots released on Netanyahu’s table at the Watergate Hotel, as well as fire alarms set off to disturb his sleep the night before his visit to Congresspic.twitter.com/8m58HKLIm8
— Tiberius (@ecomarxi) July 24, 2024
The maggots and mealworms were scattered in the hotel lobby and other public areas, causing a significant disturbance and drawing media attention.
These protests are part of a broader movement that has been ongoing for months, with demonstrators expressing their discontent with Netanyahu's government, which they accuse of eroding Israeli democracy and promoting policies that they deem discriminatory. Smadar Harush, an Israeli psychoanalyst and protester, emphasized the determination of the protesters to keep the pressure on Netanyahu until he changes his course.
Hundreds of anti-Israel activists storm the U.S. Capital and stage a sit down protest against Netanyahu before his address to Congress tomorrow.
They were arrested shortly afterwards.
Is this an insurrection? pic.twitter.com/qq0UksYo04
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) July 23, 2024
The timing of these protests coincides with Netanyahu's engagements at the UN, where he is set to meet with various world leaders. The demonstrators have planned numerous rallies throughout the week at key locations, including the Israeli consulate and Times Square. A rotating group of activists has maintained a protest vigil outside Netanyahu's hotel, promising "surprises throughout the city" to keep their message at the forefront of public attention.
The protests have garnered support from various American Jewish leaders and rabbis, who have joined the demonstrations to highlight their opposition to Netanyahu's judicial reforms. This collaboration marks a significant moment of unity between Israeli expatriates and American Jews, who see this as a fight for the future of Israeli democracy.
While the protesters have been vocal and creative in their methods, Netanyahu's supporters, including groups like the Republican Jewish Coalition, are also mobilizing to show their support for the Israeli Prime Minister and his right to defend Israel against what they describe as Palestinian terrorism.
This clash of viewpoints highlights the deep divisions within the Jewish community and the international diaspora over Netanyahu's leadership and the direction of Israeli politics. As Netanyahu continues his diplomatic tour, the protests are expected to persist, aiming to send a strong message to both Israeli and global audiences about the contentious nature of his government's actions.
Those protesters are maggots and meal worms!