Lincoln Memorial steps defaced with ‘Free Gaza’ red paint

The steps leading up to the Lincoln Memorial were vandalized with a message that read “Free Gaza” in red paint.

The National Park Service said conservators started removing the paint Wednesday morning in multiple areas, including the Lincoln Memorial steps and the Reflecting Pool. The United States Park Police told the Washington Examiner it could “take multiple treatments over several days” to remove the graffiti, and the steps on the west side of the Reflecting Pool will be closed to visitors during the conservation work.

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The vandalism of the national memorial is part of a wave of protests and other graffiti incidents in support of Palestinians since the Israel-Hamas war erupted on Oct. 7. Thousands of demonstrators have called for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to U.S. aid to Israel, urging lawmakers to take action as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens.

Last month, Sen. Martin Heinrich’s (D-NM) Santa Fe office was vandalized with red paint, displaying messages such as “Free Palestine” and “Ceasefire Now.” Ahead of the March for Israel event, graffiti was spotted along the National Mall in Washington on trash bins and electrical boxes, reading “Free Gaza” and “Gaza will win,” according to 7News.

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A pro-Palestinian rally last month left areas near the White House smeared in red paint. Protesters left red handprints outside the gates, and “Free Palestine” was painted on the statue of Marquis de Lafayette.

The U.S. Park Police are asking anyone with information to contact the tip line or email their service regarding the vandalism reported Wednesday.