Lincoln Memorial Steps Vandalized with ‘Free Gaza’ Graffiti Overnight
In a shocking incident, the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington were defaced with graffiti overnight on Tuesday. The graffiti included phrases such as “Free Gaza” and other politically charged statements. The U.S. Park Police confirmed the incident, which was first reported by local news outlets.
Park Police Responds Swiftly
The U.S. Park Police discovered the vandalism in the vicinity of the Lincoln Memorial Circle and the Reflecting Pool. Although the exact time of the incident was not confirmed, it is believed to have occurred overnight on Tuesday. The authorities were alerted to the situation around 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
Graffiti Removal Underway
The National Park Service conservators began the process of removing the paint on Wednesday morning. The removal process could take several days, and in the meantime, the steps on the west side of the Reflecting Pool have been closed to visitors. The police have cordoned off the area to facilitate the cleanup.
Graffiti Content Revealed
Footage from DC News Now revealed that the phrases “Free Palestine,” “Free Gaza,” and “Give Land Back” were written in red paint across the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. The crews on the scene informed DC News Now that the paint was water-based and would be removed fairly quickly.
Call for Public Assistance
The Park Police have appealed to the public for any information related to the incident. They have set up a tip line and an email address for people to contact them with any relevant information.
This incident comes amid a wave of vandalism, protests, and heightened tensions following Israel’s war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Several local offices in D.C., along with congressional members’ offices and other properties, have reported similar incidents of vandalism in recent weeks.
Congressional Homes and Offices Targeted
Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) reported that his home in Washington state was vandalized earlier this month by individuals advocating for a cease-fire in Israel and Gaza. This incident followed the vandalism of Herzl-Ner Tamid, a synagogue in his congressional district in Washington, last month.
Anti-Semitic Graffiti on the Rise
Last month, Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), who is Jewish, reported that his New York City district office was defaced with spray-painted pro-Palestinian slogans, including “Free Palestine,” “Let Gaza live,” and “Blood on ur hands.”
This series of incidents highlights the escalating tensions and the urgent need for dialogue and understanding in these challenging times.