The Senate’s top Republican urged prosecutors to “throw the book” at protesters who clashed with police on the streets near the Capitol on Wednesday, angry over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress.

Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell said federal authorities came down hard on the mob that attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and “rightly so.” He said he wants to see the same zeal for this week’s chaos.

“My view has always been that when extremists conspire to sow chaos and violate our nation’s capital, the government should throw the book at them. No matter their motivation. No matter their politics,” he said. “But will they pursue the lawless radicals inspired by October 7th with equal vigor? Will the District’s own government exercise the authority Congress has given it to maintain order and discourage lawless behavior? I’m not holding my breath.”

Protesters rallied Wednesday at Columbus Circle, a plaza park in between Union Station and the Capitol. Protesters raged against Mr. Netanyahu, sprayed pro-Hamas messages on the monuments in the plaza and tore down American flags, replacing them with Palestinian ones.

Video also showed protesters attacking U.S. Park Police officers who were trying to maintain some order. Columbus Circle falls under Park Police jurisdiction. More than 20 protesters were reportedly arrested during the day of demonstrations.

• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.