Maggots, crickets released in Watergate Hotel in protest of Netanyahu's visit
WASHINGTON - Pro-Palestinian activists reportedly released larvae, including maggots and crickets, inside the Watergate Hotel in Washington D.C. in protest of the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu was in the U.S. capital to meet with lawmakers and address a joint session of Congress on Wednesday. The protesters targeted the Watergate Hotel, where Netanyahu was believed to be staying during his visit.
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According to a report on FOX News, videos from the hotel showed the insects being released in common areas, with one scene displaying a table covered in mealworms, with the Israeli and American flags in the background.
The Palestinian Youth Movement’s DMV chapter posted about the incident on social media, stating that it was aimed to disrupt the peace for Netanyahu, Israeli Mossad agents, and the Secret Service.
"There will be no rest before Netanyahu and Congress disgrace themselves in front of the world for failing to achieve any of their military and political objectives," the group posted.
The Watergate Hotel responded in a statement saying they are focused on the safety and well-being of their guests and staff. They said they would ensure that the property had been sanitized and operating normally.
They are also fully cooperating with authorities who are handling the situation.
Here’s the full statement from the Watergate Hotel:
"We are aware of the social media video circulating on multiple platforms involving The Watergate Hotel and the unfortunate incident that occurred at the property yesterday. Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our guests and staff. We took the necessary steps to ensure the property has been sanitized and is now operating as normal. We are cooperating fully with authorities, who are handling the situation. As this is an open case, we are unable to provide any further details at this time."
Thousands of protesters descended on Washington, D.C. ahead of Netanyahu’s speech to members of Congress. Protesters chanted "Free, Free Palestine" as some tried to block Netanyahu's route to the Capitol.
Netanyahu vowed "total victory" against Hamas and condemned American opponents of the war in Gaza.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.