US Airman Sets Himself on Fire Outside Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC
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US Airman Sets Himself on Fire Outside Israeli Embassy
An incident occurred on Sunday in Washington, DC, where an active-duty member of the United States Air Force set himself on fire outside the Israeli Embassy, according to Air Force and local authorities. The individual, identified as Aaron Bushnell, was recorded saying, “I will no longer participate in genocide,” before igniting himself. The event took place around noon on the 3500 block of International Drive, NW. The Metropolitan Police Department responded along with assistance from the United States Secret Service.
Background of Aaron Bushnell
Aaron Bushnell, known as a US Airman, had been working as an IT management client systems technician and DevOps engineer in the Air Force since 2020. He was pursuing a degree in Software Engineering at Southern New Hampshire University. Bushnell, who was dressed at the time of the incident, resided in San Antonio, Texas.
Pre-incident Communications
Before his attempted self-immolation, Bushnell allegedly sent a message to media outlets stating, “Today, I plan to engage in an extreme act of protest against the massacre of Palestinian people.” He reportedly also livestreamed the act on Twitch, although the video has since been removed for violating community guidelines.
The Act and Subsequent Events
After dousing himself with a flammable substance and reaching for his lighter, authorities off-screen could be heard asking, “Can I help you?” Following the self-immolation, he repeatedly shouted, “Free Palestine.”
Law enforcement swiftly intervened, extinguishing the flames and transporting Bushnell to a local hospital in critical condition. The Israeli Embassy confirmed that none of its staff members were injured in the incident.
Investigation and Response
Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred amid ongoing protests against the conflict in Gaza. The recent hostilities have sparked demonstrations both in support of Palestine and Israel, particularly in the United States. This event echoes a similar incident in December outside the Israeli Consulate in Atlanta, where an individual set themselves on fire during a political protest.
Military Policy and Bushnell’s Affiliation
The Department of Defense’s policy prohibits service members on active duty from engaging in “partisan political activities.” Military regulations also prohibit uniformed personnel from participating in “unofficial public speeches, interviews, demonstrations, marches, rallies, or any public demonstration that may imply [Department of Defense] support or endorsement.”
Aaron Bushnell, who was wearing his military uniform during the incident, was employed as a DevOps engineer in San Antonio, Texas, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Historical Context
Self-immolation as a form of protest has a long history, gaining particular prominence during the Vietnam War and the Arab Spring in Tunisia.
This incident underscores the intense emotions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the lengths to which individuals may go to express their beliefs.
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