Tens of Thousands of Pro-Palestinian Supporters Organize Events Across Britain
Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators rallied across the UK on Saturday, responding to a nationwide "Day of Action" to protest Israel's renewed offensive in Gaza after a one-week ceasefire. Organizers, including Ben Jamal from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, condemned Israel's actions, asserting they violate international law by collectively punishing and targeting civilians.
Jamal stressed that Gaza is on the verge of disaster, with potential disease-related deaths threatening to exceed those caused directly by the conflict. He criticized UK political leaders for their support of Israel's actions, whether open or implied. Since the ceasefire ended, Gazan officials report at least 193 Palestinian fatalities, adding to a significant death toll since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7.
The protests aimed to advocate for a lasting ceasefire and remind the public of the Palestinians' severe plight under prolonged occupation and what is described as an apartheid system. Jamal called for justice and the Palestinians' fundamental rights to self-determination, freedom, dignity, and equality.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign has spearheaded weekly marches in London since the war's start; some have attracted up to 800,000 participants, marking them as among the largest UK demonstrations to date. Another major march is planned for December 9.
Supportive events, like rallies and vigils, occurred in various UK locations, including Brighton, Hull, Coventry, Canterbury, and Cardiff, as part of the national movement.