Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Removed From Senate Hearing After Pro-Palestinian Protest
Key Takeaways:
- Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, was removed by Capitol Police during a Senate hearing.
- Cohen protested alongside anti-Israel demonstrators who interrupted HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- He criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, accusing it of starving civilians.
- Seven people were arrested, including Cohen, for resisting arrest and obstructing the hearing.
Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Kicked Out of Senate Hearing
Ben Cohen, the co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, was escorted out of a Senate hearing on Wednesday after he joined anti-Israel protesters. The disruption happened during a session where Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was set to speak.
Cohen stood up during the hearing and shouted criticisms of Israel’s actions in Gaza. He accused Israel of starving people by blocking access to food, water, and medicine. Capitol Police quickly grabbed him by the arm and forced him to leave the room.
Before the hearing, Cohen had already made headlines. He spoke at a pro-Palestinian press conference outside the U.S. Capitol, where he introduced Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). During his speech, Cohen said, “You’re killing poor kids in Gaza and paying for it by cutting Medicaid for kids here.”
What Happened at the Hearing?
Footage from the hearing shows Cohen standing up and being removed by police. He later reposted videos and messages on social media, claiming he was among the protesters who were escorted out. NBC News’ Frank Thorp captured photos of two officers guiding Cohen out of the room.
The protest was part of a larger demonstration against Israel’s policies in Gaza. Protesters accuse Israel of causing a humanitarian crisis by restricting aid and supplies to the region.
arrests Made at the Scene
Seven people were arrested during the protest, including Cohen. They were charged with resisting arrest and obstructing the hearing. Capitol Police also cited them for “crowding, obstructing, and incommoding,” which is a legal term for blocking access or causing disturbances in public spaces.
The U.S. Capitol Police did not comment on the incident when asked for details.
Why This Matters
Ben Cohen’s actions are significant because of his high profile as a businessman and activist. He has long been involved in political causes, often using his platform to advocate for social justice. His involvement in the pro-Palestinian protest highlights the growing debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East.
Cohen and Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who also spoke at the press conference, called for the U.S. to stop supporting Israel’s actions in Gaza. They argued that American aid should instead be used to provide food and medical care to people in the region.
Responses to the Protest
Supporters of Cohen and the protesters praise their efforts to bring attention to the crisis in Gaza. They argue that peaceful protests are a necessary way to push for change when governments are slow to act.
On the other hand, critics argue that disrupting official hearings is counterproductive and disrespectful. They say it undermines the democratic process and distracts from finding solutions to complex issues.
A Long History of Activism
Ben Cohen is no stranger to activism. As the co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, he has used the company as a platform for social causes. From environmental issues to racial justice, Cohen has always been vocal about his beliefs.
His involvement in the pro-Palestinian movement reflects his commitment to human rights and his willingness to take a stand, even if it means facing criticism or legal consequences.
The Bigger Picture
The protest during the Senate hearing is part of a larger debate about U.S. foreign policy and its impact on global conflicts. Advocates like Cohen and Tlaib argue that the U.S. should use its influence to push for peace and human rights in Gaza.
Others, however, defend Israel’s actions as necessary for national security and argue that the situation is more complex than critics acknowledge.
As the conflict continues, protests like this one show that the issue remains deeply divisive, both in the U.S. and around the world.
Conclusion
Ben Cohen’s removal from the Senate hearing has sparked widespread attention and debate. While some praise his activism, others question the tactics used to draw attention to the cause.
One thing is clear: the situation in Gaza remains a pressing issue, and voices like Cohen’s are unlikely to stay silent. As the debate continues, the world will be watching to see how governments and activists respond.