Virginia governor calls pro-Palestinian protest that disrupted interstate traffic ‘unacceptable’

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin responded to a pro-Palestinian protest in Richmond on Monday after state police arrested nine people on multiple charges related to blocking Interstate 95.

The Republican governor’s comments came after Virginia State Police arrested nine protesters earlier in the day near Exit 78 near Arthur Ashe Boulevard in Richmond. The protesters had taped themselves together and positioned themselves across Interstate 95, completely blocking the roadway.

Virginia State Police said the protesters used ladders, a large metal chain and "sleeping dragon" devices. Photos taken at the scene also showed the protesters wearing sweaters that read, "STOP GENOCIDE."