Thousands March in Washington, London for Gaza ‘Day of Action’
WASHINGTON, Jan 14, 2024 – Thousands of pro-Palestine demonstrators took to the streets of Washington, London, and other cities on Saturday for a global day of action, demanding an immediate cease-fire in the ongoing Gaza conflict and protesting against US and British support for Israel.
In Washington, a large crowd waved Palestinian flags as predominantly young protesters, many wearing traditional keffiyeh, gathered in solidarity on the 99th day of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Chanting for a cease-fire, they carried banners and posters displaying messages such as Free Palestine and End the War on Gaza.
Several Palestinian-Americans, originally from Gaza but now residing in various US states, shared emotional accounts of the loss and injuries suffered by friends and relatives in Gaza. They called on US President Joe Biden to halt military and financial aid to Israel.
President Biden can easily stop this madness by exerting pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one speaker stated to resounding applause.
Meanwhile, London witnessed its seventh pro-Palestinian demonstration since October 7, when Hamas militants entered southern Israel and caused the deaths of approximately 1,140 people, most of whom were civilians, according to an AFP estimation based on official figures.
In response, Israel pledged to dismantle Hamas and initiated a relentless bombardment of Gaza, resulting in at least 23,843 deaths, with the majority being women and children, according to the latest update from the territory’s health ministry.
Around 1,700 police officers were deployed on Saturday to ensure the security of the London protest.
We want to show the people of Palestine that we stand with them and also voice our opposition to our government, explained 27-year-old health service worker Maleeha Ahmed, who attended the march with her family. Our government is playing a significant role in allowing Israel to continue its actions, and that is simply unacceptable.
Another participant, 37-year-old Dipesh Kothar, expressed frustration, stating, It’s very disheartening to watch the world stand idly by. He added, That’s why we come out to demonstrate our support for the Palestinian people and our dissatisfaction with governments worldwide.
Given the recent airstrikes in Yemen by the US and Britain against Huthi bases, following an attack on ships in the Red Sea by Iran-backed militants in solidarity with Gaza, these marches held particular significance. The day of action was organized by a British coalition and witnessed protests in 30 countries.
Kate Hudson, a representative from the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, a member of the coalition, stated that the event aimed to demand a permanent cease-fire and a lasting political resolution for all Palestinians. She emphasized the need for the British government to cease its support for Israel’s brutal war in Gaza and join the broader international community in condemning its war crimes.
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