The U.S. Capitol Police clashed with pro-Palestine and pro-Israel protesters during a rally outside the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters in Washington.
The incident happened on Wednesday evening, Nov. 15. What was supposed to be a peaceful demonstration turned to a violent protest after some police officers in riot gear clashed with dozens of protesters.
Protest organizers claimed that they weren't violent, but the U.S. Capitol Police officials say the opposite.
US Capitol Police Vs. Pro-Palestine, Israel Protesters
The protest, which was organized by three advocacy groups, was held near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Since the demonstrators were rallying just outside the DNC, lawmakers who were inside the headquarters had to be evacuated by the police.
But, pro-Palestine and pro-Israel demonstrators decided to link their arms in front of the DNC's entrance, blocking the way of U.S. officials. While doing this, some of them were singing "Which side are you on?"
The U.S. Capitol Police pushed and pulled protesters to clear a path. One protester was even shoved down a staircase leading to the entrance.
ABC News reported that the police had to keep around 150 protesters, who they claimed were illegally and violently protesting outside DNC headquarters.
However, only one arrest was made by law enforcement. The protester who was detained allegedly assaulted an officer during the protest.
"One person has been arrested for assault on an officer," said the Capitol Police via The Guardian.
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DNC Protest Leads to Violent Clash
The U.S. Capitol Police claimed that six of their officers were injured after protesters cut, pepper sprayed, and punched them.
Since the situation on Wednesday was very chaotic, responders had no choice but to treat the injured cops on the scene.
But, people who organized the protest outside the DNC denied the allegations that demonstrators were violent.
What they claim is very different from what U.S. officials shared. One of them is Congressman Sean Casten, who confirmed that protesters blocked all modes of ingress and egress.
"We were rescued by armed officers who did not know the protesters' intent; they knew only that Members of Congress were inside, could not leave, and that protesters would not let police through," said the American lawmaker.
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