Thousands gathered in Washington D.C. to show support for Israel in massive rally

Thousands of people arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday for the "March for Israel" that included speeches from religious leaders and entertainment stars, along with elected officials.

Marchers began gathering on the National Mall at daybreak under bright skies and cool fall temperatures. 

Attendees brought Israeli flags and signs that stated their support for the Jewish state. 

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., spoke at the rally, stating that the survival of Israel unites both parties on Capitol Hill.

"There are few issues in Washington that can so easily bring together leaders of both parties and in both chambers," Johnson said. "But the survival of the state of Israel and her people unites us together."

"This is a fight between good and evil and between light and darkness," he later added.  

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., also spoke at the rally, saying that America stands with Israel. 

He said during his speech that after the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas, he felt obligated to go and show his support.

"We in America have your back," said Schumer. "America feels your pain. We ache with you. We stand with you and we will not rest until you get all the assistance you need.  

Security has been ramped up, and Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Monday that the National Guard would be on site to assist local law enforcement. 

There were no credible threats or major counter protests identified for the march, according to CNN.

“The March for Israel will be an opportunity for all Americans to come together in solidarity with the people of Israel, to demonstrate our commitment to America’s most important ally in the Middle East, to condemn the rising trend of antisemitic violence and harassment, and to demand that every hostage be immediately and safely released,” organizers of the event wrote in a statement.

Other speakers included Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., and Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Others that spoke were actress Debra Messing, CNN political commentator Van Jones, and Alana Zeitchik, who is a cousin of six hostages taken by Hamas. 

The rally follows Hamas' deadly Oct. 7 terror attacks on Israel, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's declaring war on the terror group. 

Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protests have erupted across the country following the start of the war.