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ICC wants Hamas leaders, Netanyahu arrested for war crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has sought an arrest warrant for Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for crimes against humanity over the situation in the State of Palestine.
This was contained in a statement issued by ICC Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC entitled “Applications for arrest warrants in the situation in the State of Palestine“.
The statement was published by ICC on Monday, May 20, 2024, on its website.
ICC preliminary examinations
ICC Office of the Prosecutor, or OTP, is responsible for determining whether a situation meets the legal criteria established by the Rome Statute to warrant investigation.
For this purpose, the OTP conducts a preliminary examination of all communications and situations available.
The preliminary examination of a situation by the Office may be initiated on the basis of:
a) information sent by individuals or groups, States, intergovernmental or non-governmental organisations;
b) a referral from a State Party or the United Nations Security Council; or,
(c) a declaration lodged by a State accepting the exercise of jurisdiction by the Court pursuant to article 12(3) of the Statute.
Once a situation is identified, the factors in the Statute establish the legal framework for preliminary examination.
ICC versus Sinwar, Al-Masri (Deif) and Haniyeh
Khan said the application was made based on evidence collected and examined by his office.
He called on ICC to issue arrest warrant for the following Hamas leaders:
- Yahya Sinwar (Head of the Islamic Resistance Movement (“Hamas”) in the Gaza Strip),
- Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Asri, more commonly known as Deif (Commander-in-Chief of the military wing of Hamas, known as the Al-Qassam Brigades), and,
- Ismail Haniyeh (Head of Hamas Political Bureau).
ICC Prosecutor said the three bear criminal responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The crimes, he said, were committed on the territory of Israel and the State of Palestine (in the Gaza strip) from at least 7 October 2023.
Grounds for ICC prosecution
The ICC Prosecutor the following grounds for the reliefs sought:
- “Extermination as a crime against humanity, contrary to article 7(1)(b) of the Rome Statute;
- Murder as a crime against humanity, contrary to article 7(1)(a), and as a war crime, contrary to article 8(2)(c)(i);
- Taking hostages as a war crime, contrary to article 8(2)(c)(iii);
- Rape and other acts of sexual violence as crimes against humanity, contrary to article 7(1)(g), and also as war crimes pursuant to article 8(2)(e)(vi) in the context of captivity;
- Torture as a crime against humanity, contrary to article 7(1)(f), and also as a war crime, contrary to article 8(2)(c)(i), in the context of captivity;
- Other inhumane acts as a crime against humanity, contrary to article 7(l)(k), in the context of captivity;
- Cruel treatment as a war crime contrary to article 8(2)(c)(i), in the context of captivity; and,
- Outrages upon personal dignity as a war crime, contrary to article 8(2)(c)(ii), in the context of captivity.
Khan submitted that the war crimes alleged in these applications were committed in the context of international and non-international armed conflict between Israel and Hamas.
He further submitted that the crimes against humanity charged were part of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population of Israel by Hamas and other armed groups.
The attacks were perpetrated by Hamas’ military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, and other armed groups on Oct. 7.
According to him, there are reasonable grounds to believe that Sinwar, Deif and Haniyeh are criminally responsible for the killing of hundreds of Israeli civilians.
At least, 245 persons were taken hostages.
The evidence
The ICC Prosecutor said his office interviewed victims and survivors, including former hostages and eyewitnesses from six major attack locations, as part of our investigations.
The locations include Kfar Aza; Holit, the location of the Supernova Music Festival; Be’eri; Nir Oz; and Nahal Oz.
The investigation also relied on evidence such as CCTV footage, authenticated audio, photo and video materials.
He also took cognisance of statements by Hamas members including the alleged perpetrators, and expert evidence.
He said: “It is the view of my Office that these individuals planned and instigated the commission of crimes on 7 October 2023, and have through their own actions, including personal visits to hostages shortly after their kidnapping, acknowledged their responsibility for those crimes.
“We submit that these crimes could not have been committed without their actions.
“They are charged both as co-perpetrators and as superiors pursuant to Articles 25 and 28 of the Rome Statute.
“During my own visit to Kibbutz Be’eri and Kibbutz Kfar Aza, as well as to the site of Supernova Music Festival in Re’im, I saw the devastating scenes of these attacks and the profound impact of the unconscionable crimes charged in the applications filed today.
“Speaking with survivors, I heard how the love within a family, the deepest bonds between a parent and a child, were contorted to inflict unfathomable pain through calculated cruelty and extreme callousness.
“These acts demand accountability.”
Hostages taken from Israel kept in inhumane conditions
Khan held that there are reasonable grounds to believe that hostages taken from Israel have been kept in inhumane conditions.
Those conditions, he held, include subjection to sexual violence, including rape, while being held in captivity.
That conclusion was reached based on medical records, contemporaneous video and documentary evidence, and interviews with victims and survivors.
“My Office also continues to investigate reports of sexual violence committed on 7 October,” he added.
Khan expressed gratitude to the survivors, and the families of victims of the 7 October attacks, for their courage in coming forward to provide their accounts.
He assured that ICC will deepen investigations of all crimes committed and ensure that justice is delivered.
He reiterated calls for the immediate release of all hostages taken from Israel and for their safe return to their families.
“This is a fundamental requirement of international humanitarian law,” he asserted.
ICC versus Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant
ICC Persecutor similarly indicted Israeli Prime Minister, Netanyahu, and the Minister of Defence, Yoav Gallant.
He said the two bear criminal responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The said crimes, he noted, were committed on Palestinian territory in the Gaza strip from at least 8 October 2023.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
ICC indicted Netanyahu and Gallant in starvation of civilians and willfully causing great suffering.
Other charges include serious injury to body or health, willful killing and intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population.
The rest are extermination and/or murder, persecution and other inhumane acts contrary to various articles of the Rome Statute.
Crime charges
Khan submitted that the war crimes alleged were committed in the context of an international and non-international armed conflict between Israel and Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups.
He held that the crimes were committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack against Palestinian civilians.
He similarly submitted that the evidence presented was based on interviews with survivors and eyewitnesses.
Other sources are authenticated video, photo, audio material, satellite imagery and statements from perpetrators.
He said: “Israel has intentionally and systematically deprived the civilian population in all parts of Gaza of objects indispensable to human survival.
“This occurred through the imposition of a total siege over Gaza that involved completely closing the three border crossing points, Rafah, Kerem Shalom and Erez, from 8 October 2023 for extended periods and then by arbitrarily restricting the transfer of essential supplies – including food and medicine – through the border crossings after they were reopened.
“The siege also included cutting off cross-border water pipelines from Israel to Gaza – Gazans’ principal source of clean water – for a prolonged period beginning 9 October 2023 and cutting off and hindering electricity supplies from at least 8 October 2023 until today.
“This took place alongside other attacks on civilians, including those queuing for food; obstruction of aid delivery by humanitarian agencies; and attacks on and killing of aid workers, which forced many agencies to cease or limit their operations in Gaza,” Khan submitted.
Starvation and other acts of violence against Palestinians
Khan alleged a common plan to use starvation and other acts of violence against Gazan civilian population.
The purpose, he said, include to:
(i) eliminate Hamas;
(ii) secure the return of the hostages which Hamas has abducted, and,
(iii) collectively punish the civilian population of Gaza, whom they perceived as a threat to Israel.
The effects of starvation include malnutrition and dehydration which led to profound suffering and increasing number of deaths.
The victims are the Palestinian population, including babies, other children and women.
He charged two of those most responsible, Netanyahu and Gallant, both as co-perpetrators and as superiors.
He noted: “Israel, like all States, has a right to take action to defend its population.
“That right, however, does not absolve Israel… of its obligation to comply with international humanitarian law.
“Notwithstanding any military goals they may have, the means Israel chose to achieve them in Gaza – namely, intentionally causing death, starvation, great suffering, and serious injury to body or health of the civilian population – are criminal.”
ICC charged Israel to take urgent action to immediately allow access to humanitarian aid in Gaza, in line with international humanitarian law.
“Starvation as a method of war and the denial of humanitarian relief constitute Rome Statute offences,” he stressed.
“Those who do not comply with the law should not complain later when my Office takes action,” Khan asserted.
He insisted that ICC exercises criminal jurisdiction in Palestine, extending to Gaza, West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Means to the application
The means to the application resulted from independent and impartial investigation conducted by ICC.
Khan said: “Today’s applications are the outcome of an independent and impartial investigation by my Office.
“Guided by our obligation to investigate incriminating and exonerating evidence equally, my Office has worked painstakingly to separate claims from facts and to soberly present conclusions based on evidence to the Pre-Trial Chamber.”
He expressed gratitude to a panel of experts in international law, an impartial group, for candid advice.
The Panel is composed of experts of immense standing in international humanitarian law and international criminal law.
It includes Sir Adrian Fulford PC, a former Lord Justice of Appeal and former International Criminal Court Judge.
It also includes Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute President.
Others are Elizabeth Wilmshurst CMG KC, former Deputy Legal Adviser at the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, as well as Danny Friedman KC.
It also includes two of Khan’s Special Advisers – Amal Clooney and His Excellency Judge Theodor Meron CMG.
It also includes two of Khan’s Special Advisers – Amal Clooney and His Excellency Judge Theodor Meron CMG.
Independent expert analysis
The ICC Prosecutor cited also cited independent expert analysis as support and strength of the applications.
“This independent expert analysis has supported and strengthened the applications filed today by my Office.
“I have also been grateful for the contributions of a number of my other Special Advisers to this review, particularly Adama Dieng and Professor Kevin Jon Heller.
“Today we once again underline that international law and the laws of armed conflict apply to all.
“No foot soldier, no commander, no civilian leader – no one – can act with impunity.
“Nothing can justify willfully depriving human beings, including so many women and children, the basic necessities required for life.
“Nothing can justify the taking of hostages or the targeting of civilians.
“The independent judges of the International Criminal Court are the sole arbiters as to whether the necessary standard for the issuance of warrants of arrest has been met.
“Should they grant my applications and issue the requested warrants, I will… apprehend the named individuals.
“I count on all States Parties to the Rome Statute to take these applications and the subsequent judicial decision with the same seriousness they have shown in other Situations, meeting their obligations under the Statute.
“I also stand ready to work with non-States Parties in our common pursuit of accountability,” he emphasised.
Independent and impartial approach
Khan urged his Office and all of ICC, including judges, to do their work with full independence and impartiality.
“All attempts to impede, intimidate or improperly influence the officials of this Court must cease immediately.
My Office will not hesitate to act pursuant to article 70 of the Rome Statute if such conduct continues,” he insisted.
The prosecutor decried ongoing allegations and “emerging evidence of international crimes” in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.
These include reports of sexual violence on October 7 and the attendant large-scale bombing.
The bombing, he noted, has led to many civilian deaths, injuries, and suffering among Gaza populace.
He urged anyone with relevant information to contact his office and to submit information via OTP Link.
“My Office will not hesitate to submit further applications for warrants of arrest if and when we consider that the threshold of a realistic prospect of conviction has been met,” he stated, calling on all parties to comply with the law..
According to him, failure to demonstrate willingness to apply the law equally, rather selectively, will create conditions for its collapse.
“We will be loosening the remaining bonds that hold us together, the stabilising connections between all communities and individuals, the safety net to which all victims look in times of suffering.
“This is the true risk we face in this moment,” the ICC axe man warned.
“This is how we will prove, tangibly, that the lives of all human beings have equal value,” he concluded.
Analysis
Why Penis Size Does Not Affect Performance, Fertility — Experts

For countless men, penis size stirs deep anxiety fed by social media, locker-room banter, and pressure from adult content.
But sex experts and urologists agree: size rarely determines sexual function or fertility.
In a revealing conversation with PUNCH Healthwise, clinical sexologist Cecilia Agu and consultant urologist Dr. Gabriel Ogah broke down the myths emphasizing emotional connection, overall health, and sperm quality as far more meaningful indicators of sexual well-being.
Sexual Satisfaction Lies Beyond Size
Agu, who specializes in human sexology, has heard the insecurities countless times. Yet she insists that the fixation on size overshadows what truly matters in intimate relationships.
“Women value intimacy, chemistry, and creativity not centimeters,” she explained, her tone both compassionate and pragmatic.
“In most cases, size doesn’t determine performance or biological capacity. Only rare, clinically significant conditions impact size.”
She points to societal myths that equate larger size with virility.
“Historic portrayals in art and literature, and today’s media, amplify stereotypes. Pornography exaggerates, turning a normal variation into unreasonable expectations.”
Agu also cautioned against the booming market selling “enhancement” remedies.
“That industry profits off insecurity peddling pills, gadgets, and herbal supplements with no proven benefit.
The real dilemma lies in emotional weariness, not physical deficiency.”
She acknowledged true medical conditions like micropenis, often linked to hormonal or genetic causes but emphasized their rarity.
“Anyone worried about hormonal imbalances or developmental issues should seek professional evaluation,” she advised.
“Fertility Is Unrelated to Size” Dr. Gabriel Ogah
Dr. Ogah, a respected urologist, offered a no-nonsense medical perspective on the fertility question.
“A small penis doesn’t reduce a man’s ability to impregnate a woman,” he stated firmly.
“If sperm is healthy and ejaculation occurs, fertilization can happen.”
He added that many young men consult him out of anxiety sparked by unrealistic comparisons.
“Almost always, their size falls within healthy norms. It’s undue stress, fueled by exposure to distorted media portrayals.”
Dr. Ogah also debunked the idea that older men can “restore” diminishing function through enhancement products.
“As absurd as it sounds, many try. But no pill or serum can permanently alter anatomy.
These are myths masquerading as solutions.”
So What Truly Matters?
Both experts agree: prioritizing overall health, emotional intimacy, and stress-free communication far outweighs anxiety over size.
Agu stressed that sex is about connection, not metrics. “Being nervous about measurements sets couples up for dissatisfaction.
But when you focus on pleasure, emotional safety, and experimentation, the experience transforms.”
Dr. Ogah echoed this, emphasizing regular health check-ups. “Good cardiovascular health, balanced hormones, and mental well-being are key. Size doesn’t affect that.”
Dispelling the Myths, Sustaining the Confidence
As myths dissolve under scientific clarity, a bigger concern emerges: how do we nurture a culture free of body shaming? Agu proposed educational steps.
“We should teach young people that anatomy varies. Performance is multi-dimensional. Communication trumps comparison every time.”
Dr. Ogah endorsed that sentiment. “Let’s shift the narrative. Appreciate function over form. Listen to your body, and care for it through healthy living.”
Performance Isn’t About Inches
Size remains largely irrelevant when partners are emotionally in sync, focused on connection, and attuned to shared pleasure.
Fertility hinges on sperm health not size.
Medical concerns like micropenis are rare, but deserve medical evaluation.
Media, culture, and marketing distort reality. Let’s counter that with facts.
Confidence and sexual well-being stem from health, honesty, and intimacy not obsession with size.
In the end, as Agu beautifully summed up, “It’s not the size it’s how you share it.” That truth holds far more value than any number on a measuring tape.

(DDM) – A disturbing case of alleged brutality by revenue enforcement agents in Anambra State has sparked outrage across the state and beyond.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the deceased, identified as Mr. Okechukwu Theophilus Akaneme, a former chairman of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, reportedly suffered fatal injuries after being beaten by state revenue agents on October 11 last year.
Eyewitness accounts claim the assault stemmed from a dispute over unpaid waste management fees.
Family sources stated that Mr. Akaneme, who was reportedly in good health before the incident, sustained a severe spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the shoulders down.
Despite being rushed to the hospital and admitted into the intensive care unit, the businessman never fully recovered.
Medical expenses reportedly soared to ₦80 million, of which the Anambra State Government allegedly paid only ₦40 million, leaving the bereaved family with an outstanding debt of ₦40 million.
Critics say this tragic incident underscores what they describe as a culture of “revenue enforcement rascality” under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.
Business leaders argue that the practice of aggressive tax enforcement is driving fear among traders and investors in Anambra.
The video that went viral, obtained by DDM, named Mr. Joseph Okoye of Aswama as the alleged leader of the team that attacked Akaneme.
Police officers who reportedly accompanied the enforcement team have also been accused of complicity in the incident.
Sources close to the case say the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State has yet to make arrests, raising concerns about possible compromise or incompetence.
The victim’s family has called on the state government to take responsibility, prosecute those involved, and provide adequate compensation beyond partial hospital payments.
Human rights advocates have also joined the call for justice, warning that the impunity surrounding such incidents erodes public confidence in government institutions.
Critics argue that the value placed on human life under the current administration appears alarmingly low, citing similar complaints of excessive force by state task forces in the past.
Governor Soludo, a professor of economics and former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, is facing mounting pressure to respond to allegations that his administration tolerates reckless enforcement practices.
Analysts say the incident could damage Anambra’s image as a safe and viable destination for investors.
Security and respect for human rights, they argue, are prerequisites for attracting major investments and fostering economic growth.
Political observers believe the government’s response to this case will be a major test of its commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law.
As public outrage grows, civil society groups, including the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), are reportedly considering mass campaigns to demand accountability.
The late Mr. Akaneme has since been buried, but his family remains burdened by financial debt and grief.
Calls for justice continue to echo across Anambra, with residents asking how much value Governor Soludo places on the life of an ordinary citizen.
The police, the government, and all agencies involved are yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing these allegations.
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(DDM) – Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has stressed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) must be fully united before serious talks on its 2027 presidential candidate can begin.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the call came during the PDP Southern Zoning Consultative Summit held in Ikeja, Lagos, where top party stakeholders convened to deliberate on internal reforms and a credible zoning formula ahead of the party’s national convention.
Makinde told reporters after the closed-door session that rebuilding trust, strengthening internal cohesion, and reconnecting with Nigerians must be the primary agenda before candidate selection.
He warned that rushing into zoning or candidate discussions without first addressing structural cracks within the party would doom the PDP to another electoral disaster.
The governor noted that critics who claim PDP is politically dead will be proven wrong as the party regains its organisational strength.
He insisted that the outcome of the Lagos meeting had already demonstrated the party’s willingness to put aside internal disputes for the sake of unity and national credibility.
Makinde emphasised that the summit was not statutory but necessary to engage stakeholders across all southern states in meaningful dialogue.
He added that democracy thrives on consultation, inclusivity, and respect for diverse voices within a party structure.
He said democracy should not be reduced to mere power grabs but should reflect credible engagement that represents the will of the people.
The Lagos summit was attended by prominent PDP leaders, including Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, and representatives of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State.
Also present were former PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Bode George, Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, and several former governors including Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Udom Emmanuel, and Sam Egwu.
Makinde revealed that at least 12 of the 17 southern states were fully represented by zoning committee members, National Assembly representatives, and party elders.
The gathering also discussed the strategic role of the southern region in shaping the PDP’s chances in 2027, particularly given the intense political calculations expected around power rotation.
PDP’s history of zoning has been controversial, often sparking internal divisions over whether the presidency should rotate between the North and South.
In 2022, the party faced criticism after nominating Atiku Abubakar from the North despite calls for a southern candidate, a decision many analysts say fractured its support base in the 2023 elections.
This historical backdrop has heightened expectations ahead of the 2027 convention, with southern leaders pressing for early consultations to avoid past mistakes.
Makinde acknowledged that winning recent by-elections, particularly in Oyo State, had boosted PDP’s morale and disproved claims that the party was politically irrelevant.
He said the success reflected the resilience of PDP supporters and the commitment of its leaders to reclaim national dominance through hard work and strategic alliances.
The governor stressed that Nigerians are yearning for an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the PDP must present itself as a credible force.
He explained that Thursday’s meeting was part of a broader strategy to ensure the party’s zoning formula reflects fairness, justice, and national balance.
He also confirmed that more consultations will take place across southern states and eventually at the national level before the convention.
Political observers note that Thursday’s summit reflects growing pressure on the PDP to consolidate its base ahead of a highly competitive election season.
Analysts argue that the party’s ability to reconcile its factions and adopt an inclusive approach could determine its viability in 2027.
Makinde expressed confidence that the deliberations in Lagos would pave the way for further engagements capable of repositioning the party for victory.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and optimistic as the PDP undertakes internal reforms to rebuild confidence in its leadership.
The meeting was called under the auspices of the PDP Zoning Committee, chaired by Governor Douye Diri, and was described as a success by attendees.
Stakeholders are expected to reconvene in the coming weeks for broader consultations and final recommendations before the party’s National Executive Council meeting.
Makinde closed by reiterating that zoning, candidate selection, and electoral strategy would only succeed if the PDP first restores unity, discipline, and credibility within its ranks.

(DDM) – The Nigerian Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) has undertaken an advocacy visit to the National Assembly (NASS) as part of its campaign for immediate electoral reforms.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the visit, held on Tuesday, marked the 20th day of the 30-day deadline NERCO had given lawmakers to initiate credible electoral reform.
According to NERCO representatives, the group had earlier delivered a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on May 9, 2025, demanding urgent legislative action to overhaul the nation’s electoral system.
The coalition expressed disappointment over the lack of response from either chamber of the National Assembly.
NERCO stated that its advocacy involves Nigerians across faith-based, religious, and civic organizations who are committed to achieving a transparent and credible electoral process ahead of future elections.
The coalition emphasized that its demands are simple but critical to Nigeria’s democratic growth.
First, NERCO called for a credible process of appointing leadership at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group argued that only reputable and impartial individuals should oversee the commission, to avoid bias in election administration.
Second, NERCO demanded the full digitalization of the voting and result collation system.
The group stressed that accreditation, voting, and result display must be instantaneous and transparent, eliminating manual collation that has historically enabled electoral fraud.
NERCO insisted that these reforms are not “rocket science” and have been successfully implemented in other countries, adding that Nigeria must be ready to lead if necessary.
The coalition warned that failure to meet the 30-day deadline would prompt further actions, which it described as more intense than the current advocacy visit.
The group reaffirmed that its movement is self-funded and not driven by political sponsorship, describing it as a reflection of Nigerians’ collective frustration with flawed electoral processes.
COPDEM, the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy, also reacted to the visit, calling NERCO’s push “a timely reminder of Nigeria’s democratic responsibilities.”
COPDEM stated that the National Assembly must see electoral reform as an urgent priority, not a political bargaining tool, and called for immediate dialogue between legislators and civil society groups.
NERCO concluded by reiterating its demand that electoral reforms be passed within 2025, warning that delays would be unacceptable to Nigerians.

(DDM) – Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Union Station in Washington, DC, on Wednesday sparked a heated confrontation with demonstrators opposing the Trump administration’s security policies.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Vance had arrived to host a lunch with National Guard members deployed by President Donald Trump. The troops were stationed across the capital following heightened security concerns. However, his remarks were frequently drowned out by chants from angry protesters.
Witnesses reported that Vance entered a Shake Shack restaurant at Union Station to a mix of applause and loud boos. Some patrons chanted “USA, USA, USA” in support of the vice president, while others responded with cries of “shame” and “we want the military out of our streets.”
The vice president, joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, greeted troops and thanked them for their service. But tensions escalated when protesters, blocked from the second floor where the officials were gathered, intensified their chants and disrupted a press gaggle with Vance.
Speaking to reporters, Vance dismissed the protesters as “crazy” and “communists,” accusing them of misrepresenting the city’s views on public safety. Miller went further, labelling demonstrators as “elderly white hippies” and claiming, without evidence, that they were “not part of the city.”
Vance defended the administration’s stance, recounting a previous visit to the station where he claimed his family encountered “violent vagrants” that left his children frightened. “People want safer streets, and we’re here to ensure that,” he said.
The Trump administration has faced sharp criticism for ordering the deployment of the National Guard and FBI to patrol Washington, DC, and for attempts to assume control of the city’s police department. A Washington Post-Schar School poll shows that roughly eight in ten DC residents oppose these measures, reflecting deep tensions between federal authorities and local voters.
Despite the backlash, Vance insisted he was “highly skeptical that a majority of DC residents don’t want their city to have better public safety and more reasonable safety standards.”
The visit underscored a stark political divide. While some cheered the administration’s commitment to law and order, others saw the presence of troops as a provocative overreach into a city that overwhelmingly voted against Trump.
Outside the Shake Shack, protesters continued to chant as Vance departed, leaving the debate over federal control of DC policing far from resolved.
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