‘This Is a Democracy!’: Code Pink Activists Storm Congressional Office During Israel Protest

A group of Code Pink protesters stormed a congressional office Tuesday, protesting the United States' policy toward Israel.

The activists attempted to gain entry to Speaker John Boehner's (R-Ohio) office, but were unable to get inside. Moments later, the group spotted American Israel Public Affairs Committee President Robert Cohen and proceeded to follow him around the building.

As Cohen entered Rep. Steve Stivers' (R-Ohio) office, the activists followed, storming inside.

"This is a democracy! You can't tell us we can't visit!" one activist was captured on video saying. "You can't tell us that! You may have a lot of money — but you can't tell us this is not a democracy."

[sharequote align="center"]"This is a democracy! You can't tell us we can't visit!"[/sharequote]

"Israel cannot dictate U.S. policy," another individual said.

Capitol Police were eventually called on scene and escorted members of the group out.

The incident came the same day Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress, speaking out strongly against President Barack Obama's emerging nuclear deal with Iran.

Neither a spokesperson for AIPAC nor Stivers' office responded to a request for comment Tuesday evening.

Medea Benjamin, a spokeswoman for Code Pink, however, commended the activists.

"That was democracy in action, in the 'people's house.' What was inappropriate was Speaker Boehner inviting a foreign leader who wants to sabotage President Obama's negotiations with Iran," she said.

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