Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
In a significant show of solidarity, over 10,000 people turned out for an emergency protest in Central London this evening (Tuesday, May 28) in response to the recent attack on Rafah, Gaza. The demonstration, organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and other activist groups, saw a massive crowd gathering at Downing Street, demanding an immediate ceasefire and an end to the violence.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
Mass Turnout and Police Response
The Metropolitan Police reported that the number of attendees far exceeded the organizers’ initial estimates. In response, authorities closed Whitehall to traffic to ensure the safety of the protesters and to manage the large crowd effectively. Officers were deployed to maintain peace and address any potential offenses.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
The protest was marked by a significant presence of Palestinian flags and chants of “CEASEFIRE NOW” resonating through the crowd. The Metropolitan Police have imposed a new condition, requiring the demonstration to end by 8 pm, with plans to reopen Whitehall as soon as possible thereafter. The road closure extended from The Strand to Westminster Bridge, as reported by traffic monitoring service Inrix.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
Calls for Action
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign tweeted, “10,000+ people at Downing Street now for Palestine as Israel continues its brutal attack on Rafah. Our government and the Labour leadership have provided support for Israel as it commits genocide. They have blood on their hands. They must call for a #CeasefireNOW and #StopArmingIsrael.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
This protest adds to the mounting pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to officially recognize a Palestinian state, following similar recognitions by Spain, Norway, and Ireland.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
Escalation in Rafah
The protest follows a reported escalation in fighting in Rafah, Gaza. Palestinian residents have described an increase in Israeli military activity in the southern city, which has been a refuge for many during the conflict. According to AP, Israeli shelling and airstrikes west of Rafah killed at least 37 people overnight and on Tuesday, most of whom were sheltering in tents. These strikes followed another deadly attack on Sunday that resulted in a fire engulfing a camp for displaced Palestinians, killing 45 people.
Thousands Of Pro-Palestine Protesters Descend On Central London After Rafah Massacre
Israel has stated that its operations in Rafah are limited and focused on the eastern part of the city along the Gaza-Egypt border. However, international allies, including the United States, have expressed concerns over a potential full-scale offensive in the area.
Conclusion
The protest in London underscores the global outcry against the violence in Gaza and the call for immediate humanitarian intervention. As the situation in Rafah remains dire, the voices of thousands in London and around the world continue to push for peace and justice.