Aaron Bushnell is an American Airforce Member. He said, “I refuse to be complicit in genocide.”
Bushnell is an American Airforce Member. In a video obtained and reviewed by CNN, a man self-identifies as Aaron Bushnell and declares, “I refuse to be complicit in genocide.” He asserts that his actions are a small gesture compared to the plight of Palestinians. He proceeds to pour an unidentified liquid over himself, igniting it while shouting “Free Palestine” repeatedly.
Police officers intervene, extinguishing the flames as the man collapses. According to Vito Maggiolo, a public information officer from DC Fire, the fire had already been put out by the US Secret Service before firefighters arrived at the scene. The man was transported by DC Fire and EMS to a local hospital and remains in critical condition
Aaron Bushnell Rescued
The District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department confirmed receiving a report regarding a man on fire outside the embassy around 1 p.m. Eastern Time. However, emergency services were dispatched, and the fire was extinguished by uniformed members of the Secret Service. The man, suffering from critical life-threatening injuries, was transported to a nearby hospital.
The incident is believed to be a protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Independent journalist Talia Jane captured video footage of the self-immolation. Although it has not been widely circulated online due to swift removal by platforms. On social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Jane reported that the man was dressed in an Air Force uniform. Furthermore, he identified himself as an active-duty member of the U.S. Air Force, stating he would no longer be complicit in what he termed as genocide. He filmed himself walking, expressing that his actions would pale in comparison to the suffering of Palestinians. Before igniting himself and chanting “Free Palestine” repeatedly.
Aaron Bushnell Family
It seems that Bushnell’s parents maintain close connections with a religious group known for its support of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Bushnell’s mother, Danielle, aged 57, has been employed by the group’s publishing arm, Paraclete Press, for a significant period. Additionally, Bushnell’s father, David, who holds a senior position at a local architecture firm, promotes his affiliation with the Christian group on his Facebook profile.