Aaron Bushnell, an active-duty member of the U.S. Air Force, staged a dramatic protest outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., to denounce Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Washington D.C. law enforcement’s intervention in Aaron Bushnell’s mission against Israel left online users on X with questions
Aaron Bushnell protests for people in Gaza
Aaron Bushnell staged his protest by walking up to the driveway of the Israeli embassy and setting himself alight. He set his phone down on the ground, pouring an unknown liquid from a bottle over himself, and igniting it while repeatedly yelling “Free Palestine.”. According to the BBC, Before setting himself alight in what he called an “extreme act of protest”, he said he would “no longer be complicit in genocide”.
The recent act of self-immolation by the active-duty member of the U.S. Air Force, shocked and saddened many. Bushnell succumbed to his injuries later at a local hospital.
Washington D.C. police tried to save Aaron Bushnell
Law enforcement officers swiftly responded to the scene of Aaron Bushnell’s self-immolation outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Authorities then attempted to intervene by screaming at Bushnell to get on the ground and pointing a gun at him while he collapsed on the ground in pain. Additionally, one officer used a fire extinguisher on the flames engulfing Bushnell. The efforts of Secret Service officers eventually contributed to extinguishing the fire and providing aid to Bushnell before he was transported to a local hospital.
Video shows Aaron Bushnell at Israeli embassy
A video captured before the incident shows Bushnell dressed in military uniform. He echoed the sentiments of many across the globe who decry the violence and suffering in Gaza. In the clip, Aaron said he was taking drastic measures to fight for justice in Palestine.
The video could offend or disturb viewers, viewing it should be at the viewer’s discretion.
Aaron Bushnell’s Palestine protest moves netizens
Aaron Bushnell was described as a compassionate and thoughtful individual by those who knew him. His decision to protest in such a drastic manner underscores the urgency and desperation felt by many witnessing the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
@PalSolidarityHQ was touched:
“Just heartbroken for this guy that he had to do this to make a point.”
@for_afairworld7 added:
“Heartbreaking. He seems like a very sensitive soul. Rest in peace young man”
@ibetesh was keen to take action:
“I will make a donation for the victims of Hamas genocide in his name too.”
@MadihaRizvi lamented:
“He passed away. May he rest in peace.”
@its_makua wondered:
“Why is there a gun pointed at him?”
United States role in the conflict
The aftermath of Bushnell’s protest has sparked investigations by multiple agencies and brought attention to the role the United States plays. The United States has provided extensive political, military, and economic support to Israel in the Gaza conflict. This includes billions in annual military aid. Critics argue this support has emboldened Israel’s aggressive actions. A thing that has led to widespread devastation among Palestinian civilians and international condemnation of U.S. policy.