Wed Sep 25 08:34:31 UTC 2024: ## Protests Erupt Across US Demanding End to US Military Support for Israel Amid Middle East Conflict

**WASHINGTON** – Protests erupted across the United States on Tuesday, with demonstrators demanding an end to American military support for Israel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The protests, organized by the ANSWER coalition group, coincided with Israel’s ongoing military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon, which have drawn international condemnation.

In New York City, dozens gathered in Herald Square, waving banners that read “Hands off Lebanon now” and “no U.S.-Israeli war on Lebanon.” They chanted slogans like “Hands off the Middle East,” “Free Palestine,” and “Biden, Harris, Trump and Bibi; none are welcome in our city,” targeting both current and former US leaders as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Similar demonstrations took place in Washington D.C., San Francisco, Seattle, San Antonio, Phoenix, and other cities, all condemning the US’s continued support for Israel despite the ongoing conflict. Protesters argued that the US provides the weapons and technology enabling Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, effectively making the US complicit in the violence.

“Israel’s attacks in Lebanon and the ongoing siege and genocide in Gaza are made possible by the huge amount of bombs, missiles and warplanes provided by the U.S. government,” the ANSWER coalition group stated.

Israel has defended its actions as acts of self-defense against militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, which it considers hostile. While the US has continued to support its ally, it has also called for a ceasefire.

“What’s happening in Gaza is not genocide. We reject that,” President Biden said during a Jewish American Heritage Month event. However, the US continues to provide significant military aid to Israel, a point of contention for many protesters.

The situation in the Middle East has raised concerns about a wider regional conflict. Leaders of different UN member states met this week to address the escalating tensions, with the Middle East at the forefront of the agenda. The protests across the US reflect the growing international concern over the conflict and the potential for further escalation.

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