The U.S. Capitol Police announced on Friday that they will increase security measures at the Capitol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to US Congress next week. The heightened security comes in response to anticipated protests from both outside demonstrators and members of Congress, some of whom have vowed to boycott the speech.
According to a report from Axios, the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights has called for “tens of thousands of people from across the U.S.” to gather at the Capitol on Wednesday to demand a “citizen’s arrest” of Netanyahu. In preparation, the Capitol Police plan to add more officers, including from outside agencies, and ensure they have sufficient resources.
What is the Capitol Police saying?
A statement from the Capitol Police emphasized that while they respect the right to peaceful and legal demonstrations, they are preparing for a significant turnout. “We anticipate a large number of demonstrators to show up. We respect everyone’s First Amendment rights, however all demonstrations must be done peacefully and legally,” the statement read.
Additionally, the House sergeant-at-arms has informed congressional offices that “anti-scale fencing” will be put in place around the Capitol, similar to the security measures during this year’s State of the Union address. There will also be security at vehicle and pedestrian access points, with road closures planned to manage demonstration activity. Staffers and lawmakers have been advised to use the underground tunnels for movement between House offices and the Capitol.
Will arrest people if we have to, says House Speaker
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has further intensified the situation by announcing plans to deploy extra sergeants-at-arms on the floor of the House. Johnson warned that if Democrats disrupt the speech, “We’re going to arrest people if we have to do it.”
As Netanyahu prepares for his address, the combination of increased security and the potential for significant protests highlights the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.
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