House Republicans Raise American Flags in D.C.

Protests erupted in Washington, D.C., during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress, leading to chaotic scenes including the burning of American flags by demonstrators who raised Palestinian flags in their place. House Republicans, led by Rep. Dan Crenshaw and House Speaker Mike Johnson, responded by re-raising the American flags at Union Station later that night, condemning the actions of the protesters as 'disgusting and reprehensible'. The protests, which were critical of U.S. support for Israel amid the Gaza conflict, involved clashes with law enforcement, resulting in multiple arrests. Some protesters displayed pro-Hamas sentiments and vandalized monuments, while GOP lawmakers criticized the demonstrations as influenced by foreign entities. The confrontations highlighted tensions surrounding U.S. foreign policy and its implications domestically. The events reflect broader debates over free speech and political expression in the face of international conflicts.