Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, was arrested during a Senate committee hearing on Wednesday, where testimony was provided by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Alongside six other protesters, Cohen was removed from the hearing by Capitol Police after he voiced accusations regarding Congress’s role in the deaths of children in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Protesters held signs and chanted against Kennedy during his testimony, with one claiming, “RFK kills people with AIDS.”
Sen. Bill Cassidy, the committee chairman, requested the removal of the protesters as Cohen stood up to express his views. The police charged the group with crowding, obstructing, and incommoding, while most, including Cohen, also faced additional charges, including resisting arrest. Cassidy noted the incident made for a “made for C-SPAN moment” before the hearing resumed.
Post-arrest, Cohen reiterated his protest message in a video, stating, “Congress kills poor kids in Gaza by buying bombs,” and urged lawmakers to ease the siege on Gaza, emphasizing the need for food delivery to starving children.
Cohen has since been released, and Ben & Jerry’s did not immediately comment. Historically, the company has expressed criticism towards the Israeli government, notably announcing in 2021 its decision to stop selling ice cream in the occupied territories, citing a misalignment with their values. This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding U.S. foreign policy and its implications in the region.
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