Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian-born, anti-Israel activist

Since October 2023, more than 12,400 pro‑Palestinian protests have been recorded across the United States, many of which have received support from far-left groups such as the Democratic Party.

Many of these protests have taken place on university campuses, with occupations at Columbia, UCLA, Emory, and other institutions, resulting in dozens or even hundreds of arrests. The protests have included explicitly pro‑Hamas, antisemitic, and violent chants, the burning of U.S. and Israeli flags, vandalism, and assaults on police officers.

In Washington D.C., in front of the Capitol and the Democratic Party headquarters, protesters have been seen waving Hamas flags, spraying pro‑Hamas graffiti, burning effigies, and clashing with police. Events have also been held where pro‑Hamas speakers like Mahmoud Khalil were warmly received, drawing criticism for promoting terrorism and fueling a polarizing narrative. Authorities have responded with arrests (over 80 at Columbia, 93 at UCLA, and 23 in D.C.), curfews, and increased police presence on campuses and in urban areas.