Protesters Disrupt Senate Hearing, Condemn Blinken's Actions on Israel

Anti-war protesters interrupted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a Senate hearing, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. The protesters, some affiliated with the anti-war group CODEPINK, disrupted the hearing by repeatedly shouting "Ceasefire now!" The Secretary of State paused and the hearing was suspended multiple times before the demonstrators were escorted out by Capitol Police. The protesters demanded an end to US funding for Israel's military efforts against Hamas. Blinken acknowledged the protesters' concerns but emphasized the importance of standing with allies. The hearing also discussed President Biden's national security package, which includes funding for Ukraine's defense, humanitarian assistance, Indo-Pacific security, and southern border security. Congressional Republicans have proposed separate funding for Israel, while the White House accused them of politicizing national security interests.