Riyadh : Former US Marine and Green Party Senate candidate Brian McGinnis strongly criticized US foreign policy shortly after being released from jail, opening his remarks at a public gathering with the slogan “Free Palestine.”
Speaking to supporters, McGinnis said the suffering of Palestinians gives him “endless strength” to continue what he described as his political struggle against the military direction of the United States.
McGinnis was arrested on March 4 after interrupting a session of the United States Congress Armed Services Committee to protest Washington’s involvement in the war with Iran.
Security personnel removed him from the chamber during the disruption. Reports said the incident involved Tim Sheehy along with officers from the United States Capitol Police.
According to reports, McGinnis suffered a broken arm during the confrontation when his arm became caught in the chamber door.
Video footage of the incident later circulated widely online, with some observers criticizing what they described as excessive force used against an anti-war protester.
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Despite the injury, McGinnis intensified his criticism after his release. He accused US leaders of “colluding” with Israel and pushing the country into wars that he said do not have public support.
Referring to the oath he took during his military service, McGinnis said his mission now is to confront what he described as “domestic enemies” who are leading the country toward further conflict.
He ended his speech by urging Americans to engage in “peaceful rebellion” against militarized policies, warning that remaining silent would betray the oath he once took as a member of the military.