Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside the US Capitol on Saturday, demanding an immediate arms embargo against Israel and an end to Washington’s military support amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Organised by the Palestinian Youth Movement and allied groups, the rally marked three years since Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza in October 2023. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and carried banners calling for sanctions against the Israeli government.

Demonstrators also urged US lawmakers to reconsider military assistance to Israel and called on public institutions to withdraw investments from weapons manufacturers supplying arms to the country.

Nouhad Akkar of the Palestinian Youth Movement said the campaign aimed to hold elected representatives accountable for US military support. Other speakers criticised American military spending abroad, linking it to domestic concerns such as rising living costs and stagnant wages.

The demonstration reflects continued pressure from pro-Palestinian activists on the US government to change its policies towards Israel, particularly regarding arms supplies, investment and diplomatic support.