Renowned American Rapper Macklemore Makes Unexpected Appearance at Palestine Support Rally in Washington D.C., Denounces Israeli Strikes in Gaza
In a surprising turn of events, the renowned American rapper, Macklemore, appeared at a pro-Palestine protest in the nation’s capital, where over 100,000 individuals gathered to condemn President Joe Biden’s support for Israel. Climbing onto the stage unexpectedly, the artist condemned the retaliatory Israeli strikes in Gaza, acknowledging that he might not be the most qualified person to engage in such matters.
Revealing his real name as Benjamin Hammond, the artist disclosed that he was urged to remain silent and conduct research to comprehend the situation before stepping forward. He emphasized that his recent investigations pointed toward what he described as a form of genocide.
Addressing his audience in a widely circulated social media clip, Macklemore expressed, “We’ve been complicit just to protect our professional lives, and our interests, and I won’t do that anymore. I’m not afraid to speak the truth.”
🇵🇸🇮🇱 Rapper ‘Macklemore’ shows his support for Palestine.
“We have been taught to just be complicit, to protect our careers, to protect our interests, and I’m not gonna do it anymore, I’m not afraid to speak the truth!” pic.twitter.com/RnBYomefQf
— Censored Men (@CensoredMen) November 5, 2023
Several celebrities have also taken to social media to share their thoughts on the Gaza conflict. American actress Angelina Jolie posted an image showcasing the extensive destruction caused by Israeli airstrikes on Jabalia refugee camp.
Moreover, American-Egyptian artist Rami Malek showed solidarity with Gaza’s residents, alongside American artist John Cusack, who condemned the targeting of civilians in the region. Adding to the voices of American artists, Susan Sarandon shared an image illustrating the land taken by settlers in Palestine between 1918 and 2021, and in the United States from its indigenous inhabitants between 1492 and 2021.
Thousands gathered in Washington, demanding an “immediate cessation of fire” in Gaza while criticizing Washington’s pro-Israel stance. The demonstrators, predominantly comprised of young individuals and families, raised Palestinian flags and many donned traditional Palestinian kufiyas. This occurred on the 29th day of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, urging for an “immediate end to the blockade of Gaza.”
Washington DC now: largest pro #Palestine and anti-war protest. One takeaway from my time in #Washington as Palestine’s ambassador is the huge gap between US politicians and the American people ✊🏽 pic.twitter.com/H32RKYuDLB
— Husam Zomlot (@hzomlot) November 4, 2023
President Biden’s administration has shown robust support for its ally, Israel, following the Hamas attack on October 7th. The U.S. administration continues to resist calls for a ceasefire, only advocating for “humanitarian ceasefires.”
Hamas initiated an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7th, resulting in approximately 1,400 casualties, mostly civilians, on the first day, as reported by Israeli authorities. In retaliation, Israel conducted relentless strikes on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 9,488 individuals, mostly civilians, according to the Health Ministry associated with Hamas.