Protesters advocating for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict and accusing Israel of committing “genocide” in Gaza caused disruptions during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing. The purpose of the hearing was to confirm former Treasury Secretary Jack Lew as the ambassador to Israel.
Demands for Cease-Fire and Aid Stoppage
During the hearing, one protester passionately exclaimed, “Stop the genocide of Palestinians! We urgently need a cease-fire now. It’s time to halt aid to Israel.”
Another protester interrupted the proceedings, holding a sign that read “cease fire now” and asked, “How many innocent children must perish before the U.S. government calls for a cease-fire? Our families are being torn apart by this violence.”
Video Footage Reveals Tense Exchanges
One user named Detty shared a video capturing one of the intense exchanges between the protesters and the committee.
Lew’s Controversial Background
As former Treasury Secretary under President Barack Obama, Jack Lew played a significant role in the Obama administration’s negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. This position has been a point of contention for Republicans, who have criticized Lew’s involvement.
Additionally, Lew has served as President Obama’s chief of staff and has held key positions, such as director of the Office of Management and Budget, under both Obama and former President Bill Clinton.