Lawmakers Replace Flags Amid Violent Protests

Protests erupted in Washington D.C. against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's congressional address, leading to the burning of American flags and their replacement with Palestinian ones at Union Station. In response, House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans replaced the flags, emphasizing unity and patriotism. Vice President Kamala Harris, criticized for not attending Netanyahu's speech, met with him later and stressed Israel's right to defend itself while expressing concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Republican Jewish Coalition released an ad targeting Harris for her perceived lack of support for Israel. Amid the protests, some Democrats boycotted Netanyahu's address, while others, like Senator John Fetterman, attended and expressed support for Israel. The protests also saw acts of vandalism and led to calls for stricter penalties against such actions.