Tens of Thousands Rally in Support of Palestine and Israel Amid Escalating Conflict
Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the United States Show Solidarity
Tens of thousands of protesters rallied across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the United States on Friday, demonstrating their support for Palestinians and condemning Israel as the conflict in the region escalated. The rallies came in response to Hamas’ assaults on Israel and the ensuing Israeli strikes on Gaza.
In addition to the rallies, Jewish communities in the United States, France, and other countries held solidarity events with Israel. The recent Hamas attack on Israeli communities resulted in the deadliest killing spree against Israeli civilians in the country’s 75-year history.
While Western governments and many citizens have shown strong support and sympathy for Israel in response to the Hamas attacks, the Israeli response has also sparked anger, particularly in Arab and Muslim countries.
Global Demonstrations Reflect Widespread Outrage and Solidarity
Protesters in Turkey gathered outside mosques, chanting against Israel and saluting Hamas. In Nablus, clashes between youths and the Israeli military broke out, with fires set on the streets. Demonstrations also took place in Rome, Berlin, and other European cities.
Germany and France had banned pro-Palestinian demonstrations, and several Western countries increased security at synagogues and Jewish schools due to concerns of potential violence.
Hamas Calls for Palestinian Uprising as International Support and Opposition Grow
Hamas urged Palestinians to rise up against Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, calling on them to march on Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem. However, as of 1700 GMT, no major incidents had been reported at the mosque.
The recent assault by Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, resulted in the deaths of at least 1,300 people, mostly civilians, including women and children. In response, Israel has intensified its airstrikes and artillery fire on Gaza, with a ground invasion appearing imminent.
Global Outpouring of Support and Opposition
Protests and rallies were seen in Baghdad, Iran, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bulgaria, Yemen, Cape Town, India’s Kashmir region, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Egypt. Demonstrators voiced their solidarity with Palestine, condemning Israel’s actions.
Meanwhile, Jewish communities also held vigils and rallies in support of Israel in various locations, including Warsaw and Paris.
Heightened Security Measures as Hate Crimes Increase
Police in London and other cities increased patrols and visited schools, synagogues, and mosques due to a significant rise in hate crimes, particularly antisemitism.
Overall, the conflict between Israel and Palestine has sparked outrage, solidarity, and opposition worldwide, with global communities expressing their support for both sides.
