Des Moines protest halts traffic as demonstrators rally against US military action in Iran

DES MOINES, Iowa —

Central Iowans blocked traffic in downtown Des Moines Monday evening to protest U.S. military action against Iran, chanting as they stopped cars near Locust and Third streets.

Dozens of demonstrators filled the intersection and nearby sidewalks, holding signs and calling for an end to the conflict.

“Everyone needs to be out here, because if everyone is out here, then the war will end,” said Vicente Torres-Hernandez, who attended the rally as the group marched through the downtown area.

Another protester, Eloise Cranke, held a sign referencing past anti-war demonstrations.

“This sign comes from years ago when leaders saying no war in Iraq,” she said. “And now we’re having to say it again.”

Organizers want to focus on peace — and spending at home

The rally was organized by the Party for Socialism and Liberation of Iowa. Organizers said it was part of a nationwide call to action.

Duncan Burnett, who helped lead the event, said the group wants resources redirected away from military action and toward domestic priorities.

“What we’re after is peace and addressing the needs of people here in the U.S.,” Burnett said.

Several speakers and participants criticized the administration’s approach to military force and argued Congress should play a larger role in authorizing strikes.

Kim Hagemann said she felt compelled to attend after learning of the strikes.

“We are tired of all the killing,” Hagemann said. “We are tired of spending all our money on bombs and war. And we here in the United States are suffering.”

Watch: Protesters march in downtown Des Moines against U.S. military action in Iran

Administration says strikes aimed at stopping nuclear advancement

President Donald Trump has said striking Iran is intended to stop the country from advancing its nuclear program.

“An Iranian regime armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be an intolerable threat,” Trump said in remarks cited by the White House.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also echoed that reasoning in comments referenced by the administration: “Destroy the missile threat. Destroy the navy. No nukes.”

Protesters plan to demonstrate during Hegseth’s Iowa visit

Hegseth is expected to be in Iowa Saturday for a campaign event for Rep. Zach Nunn, according to organizers of Monday’s rally. The group said it plans to protest his appearance.

“I will see you in the streets this weekend,” one demonstrator said as the crowd gathered near the Neal Smith Federal Building.

No arrests were announced as of Monday night, and traffic resumed after the group moved on from the intersection.