In a disquieting turn of events, Times Square witnessed a gathering of individuals chanting in support of Houthi insurgents, known for their attacks on U.S. forces and assets.
This demonstration took place last night, orchestrated by leftist organizations such as the Party for Socialism and Liberation. The groups rallied for an "emergency protest" following airstrikes on the Houthis by the U.S. and the U.K. on Thursday night.
President Joe Biden issued an official statement on the matter, after which he refrained from answering further questions. The protesters, many of whom were familiar faces from previous demonstrations, repurposed their "Free Palestine" placards to display a new message: "Stop the U.S. Bombing in Yemen." Approximately 200 individuals joined the protest within hours of the airstrikes' commencement.
The crowd's chants ranged from "U.S., U.K, go to hell!" to "It is right to rebel," and "From Yemen to Palestine, imperialism is a crime." They also voiced their support for Yemen with chants like "Yemen, Yemen, you will rise," and demanded justice with cries of "Stop bombing Yemen now." The protesters referred to the U.S. as the "beast" in their chant "From the belly of the beast, hands off the Middle East."
The protesters, waving Palestinian flags, called for the U.S. to cease all aid to Israel. They declared their solidarity with Yemen, supporting those who have launched attacks on the U.S. and its allies.
Footage of the protesters chanting "U.S., UK, go to hell" can be seen on various platforms. Observers noted the speed with which the protesters mobilized, given the recency of the airstrikes. However, this swift response is a common occurrence for such leftist protests. The U.S. and U.K.'s prior warning of a likely response to the Houthis' actions allowed the protesters ample time to prepare their banners.
The Houthis have justified their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea as a show of support for Hamas. The U.S. retaliated after the Houthis ignored warnings and launched their most significant attack yet, endangering American personnel and partners.
The protesters marched from Times Square to Columbus Circle, seemingly indifferent to the fact that the Houthis initiated the conflict by attacking U.S. assets. They appear to believe that the U.S. should passively accept being fired upon. However, this anti-U.S. sentiment is not surprising, given their leftist leanings.
The only individual arrested during the protest was reportedly a pro-Israel supporter.
In addition to the Times Square protest, demonstrators also gathered in front of the White House following the airstrikes.
The Biden Administration initially removed the terrorist designation from the Houthis. However, this decision has proven to be misguided, as the Houthis, emboldened by this leniency and backed by Iran, have escalated their actions. Consequently, the Biden Administration is once again forced to address the repercussions of its ill-advised decisions.
Login