Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the homes of two top Biden officials on Christmas morning. The crowds organized in the neighborhoods of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security adviser Jake Sullivan by sunrise.
According to pro-Palestinian groups online, the protests were organized in an effort to “cancel” Christmas amid the Israel-Hamas war.
Similar protests were seen in New York City, with crowds calling for a cease-fire. New York police arrested at least six people after a clash with officers near Grand Central Terminal. One police officer was reported injured.
In the holy city of Bethlehem, the usual festivities did not take place. Instead of the traditional Christmas tree, a nativity scene was presented inside rubble and barbed wire to symbolize the destruction of the ongoing war and recognize the loss from within the Gaza Strip.
A potential deal for a second temporary cease-fire and hostage talks appears to have stalled. Hamas officials are saying they will not release the hostages until Israel calls off the war, and Israel is urging troops not to stop until Hamas is eliminated.
Close advisers to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with White House and State Department officials on Wednesday, Dec. 27.