Category Archives: Mideast

Arab and Middle Eastern States: International Day of Peace

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION . .

A survey by CPNN

The following 18 events in 12 Arab and Middle Eastern countries were listed in Google during the week of September 21-28 this year under the key words “International day of peace” “peace day”, “journee internationale de la paix” and اليوم الدولي للسلام .

About 18 events are listed on the maps of One Day One Choir and Montessori schools singing for peace, but there is no indication which took place this year and which took place only in previous years


AFGHANISTAN

On September 21, the International Day of Peace. . . an online launch event to kick-off the new World BEYOND War India and Afghanistan chapters! We’ll discuss World BEYOND War’s mission and campaigns, the current state of the peace movement in Afghanistan and India, and why we need a world beyond war. We’ll have time to break out into discussion groups to talk about what anti-war issues matter to you and how we can work together to create World BEYOND War chapters in India and Afghanistan.

ARAB LEAGUE

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, the Arab League called on all nations and peoples, especially Arab countries experiencing armed conflicts, to immediately cease fire, abide by the cessation of hostilities, and resort to a political solution, as it is the only way to settle conflicts and disputes. . . The Arab League affirmed its full support for the efforts undertaken by the United Nations with the aim of promoting sustainable peace, including its commitments to peacekeeping and peacebuilding, and its keenness to establish a strategic partnership with the International Organization for the Prevention of Peace. disputes and their resolution. The Arab League also called on all peoples to work on building and spreading a culture of peace by consolidating a set of values ​​and behavioral patterns based on respect for human rights, rejecting violence in all its forms and forms, strengthening the rule of law, adhering to the principles of democracy, freedom and justice, spreading the values ​​of tolerance, acceptance of others, cultural pluralism and promoting dialogue.

BAHRAIN

AThe Bahrain Shura and Representatives Councils hold a dialogue seminar in conjunction with the International Day of Peace. . . the original topic has been published and is available on the Bahraini Al-Watan newspaper , and the editorial team at Al-Jadeed Press has verified it . . .

CAIRO, EGYPT – HELIOPOLIS LIBRARY

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace.. Fine Art Exhibition at Heliopolis Library . . . Iman Mahdi, director of the Heliopolis Library, confirmed that the exhibition includes paintings that reflect the various symbols of peace in a graffiti style, where the dove of peace, the olive branch, and the various symbols of peace from all civilizations are painted to express peace . . . Mahdi indicated that on the sidelines of the exhibition, a number of workshops will be held on the theme of the International Day of Peace, under the supervision of the artist Ahmed Biro, with the participation of the exhibition’s pioneers . .

CAIRO, EGYPT – TALAAT HARB CULTURAL CENTER

The Talaat Harb Cultural Center “in Mrs. Nafisa”, affiliated to the Cultural Development Fund Sector, will hold a number of artistic and cultural activities on the occasion of the International Peace Day . . . The celebration comes to familiarize the center’s youth and children with the concepts and objectives of the International Day of Peace, and it includes: plastic arts workshops and an art exhibition for the production of the August workshops, a cultural evening around the International Day of Peace, and the celebration ends with a concert by the “Sabaya” band, led by the artist Nashwa Talaat, who presents a collection of traditional songs. From different countries.

CAIRO, EGYPT – tour and symposium

The Department of Cultural Development and Community Communication at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in cooperation with the Ability Center for Studies and Training, organized the first rounds of the “Parents of Determination” program for 30 families of deaf and hard of hearing, under the title “With reference, you will know the history of the ancestors.” . . . At the end of the tour, an educational symposium was organized in Al-Ghouri Dome on “Accepting the Other”, on the sidelines of the celebration of the International Day of Peace.

TEHRAN, IRAN

International art show themed with global peace. Each one of these delicate works of art are created by an artist from a different country, each trying a unique way to highlight the need for a lasting peace in the world. Dubbed Aspiration for Peace, the art gallery is organized by the ECO Cultural Institute with the aim of promoting global peace through the language of art. . . . The art show was held on the occasion of the International Day of Peace.

JERUSALEM, ISRAEL

In honor of International Peace Day, some 1,000 Jewish and Arab mothers will gather Wednesday for a number of events held by Women Wage Peace, including creating a human chain and a rally. “The events of the past year proved that it is impossible to manage the Israel-Palestinian conflict,” said Women Wage Peace steering committee member Nadia Hamdan. “We will come to Jerusalem during Hol Hamo’ed Sukkot and demand that the government do everything possible to resolve the conflict with a political agreement. We embark on a New Year waging peace,” she said. “We Jewish, Moslem, Christian, Druze and Bedouin mothers, secular and religious, will stand together in a Human Chain of peace and hope, along the walls of the Old City, and will hold a Mothers’ Rally. Our voices must be heard!”

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Question related to this article:

What has happened this year (2021) for the International Day of Peace?

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LIBYA

23 Libyan organizations and institutions, including Solidarity, issued a statement on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, in which they called to support peace efforts in Libya, and to make every possible effort to stop hate speech, and to stop and silence the platforms of incitement and violence. It also stresses support for the Libyan youth initiatives that are active in peace initiatives, and to stay away from resorting to weapons and bullets. At the conclusion the statement recommended the Government of National Unity to strive for the recovery of all Libyans and protect them from the Covid-19 pandemic by providing vaccines and medical care for all, citizens, migrants and workers, without discrimination.

SOMALIA

The Home of Somali Poetry also hosts an annual Somali Poetry Awards to recognize the very best creative talent, including the Poet of the Year, Woman Poet of the Year, sponsored by UNDP, and Youth Poet of the Year. The awards open each year on the International Day of Peace, 21st September, and are open to all Somalis around the world. Entries can be submitted through the Home of Somali Poetry website until 21st October. The awards are handed out at a ceremony on 21st November. This year’s judges include some of the best known and upcoming Somali poets, including Ahmed F. Ali, known as Idaajaa, Osman Abdullahi Guure, Mohamud Haji Mohamed, commonly known as Tarash, Asha Mohamud Yusuf, or Asha-luul and Hawa Jama Abdi.

SOUTH SUDAN

Today, on the International Peace Day under the motto “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world” we, the undersigned faith-based organizations and members of the Ecumenical Network on South Sudan (ENSS) Europe and North America Hub, urgently call for ‘Peace and Accountability’ in South Sudan, joining the voice of the church in South Sudan. We call upon the leaders of South Sudan, both in government and in opposition, the security forces and citizens to finally take responsibility and resolve conflicts both national and locally through nonviolent means. We reiterate our strong solidarity with the women, men, boys and girls in South Sudan who have for too many years borne the burden of conflict. We express our deep solidarity with civil society, the church and traditional leadership, especially youth and women working for peace and justice and those denouncing violence on a daily basis.

JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN

A wide spectrum of stakeholders commemorating International Day of Peace in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, has dedicated the day to work together to infuse fresh momentum in the peace process with a resolute call for peace partners to stop conflict and promote human rights so that the trauma and scars of past civil wars can be healed. . . In the spirit of recovery and reconciliation, The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) helped sponsor a panel discussion to mark the Day, drawing panelists from various universities across Juba, the South Sudan Peace Commission and the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports.

SYRIA

On the International Day of Peace, children expressing peace in their own way here, in a refugee camp in northwestern Syria, specifically in the camps of oppression and suffering. On what they called the “roll of peace”. (article includes photos and statements by the children)

TUNISIA

Video of Celebration of the International Day of Peace in Tunisia- Sept 2021 United Religions Initiative MENA

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dr. Muhammad Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of Trades Research and Consulting, and Hamad Al-Kaabi, editor-in-chief of Al-Ittihad newspaper, announced the organization of a joint symposium under the title: “Spreading a Culture of Peace and Tolerance in the World: What Should We Do?” The symposium is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, September 21, in the Peace Hall in the “Trends” headquarters in Al Rawda area in Abu Dhabi, with the participation of a group of experts and men of thought, politics and religion from the UAE and several countries. The symposium is held in conjunction with the International Day of Peace. . .

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Bangladesh Digital Social Innovation Forum and the Digital Social Innovation Forum are going to host the Global Peace and Humanitarian Award 2021 on September 21 in Dubai for the first time on the World International Day of Peace. Ali Akbar Asha, Founder President of BDSIF and DSIF informed about the event.The Awards is presented to honor individuals and organizations whose exemplary efforts have significantly improved the lives of others and contributed consistently to a culture of peace and humanitarian service.

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Sharjah India International School organiwed various events as part of the International Peace Day celebrations. Students in brightly colored clothes marched on campus holding placards proclaiming the importance of peace.

TAIZ, YEMEN

In Taiz, Abductees’ Mothers Association held, today, a seminar titled “Release Them for Prevailing Peace” in conjunction with the International Peace Day, September 21st. During the seminar, the representative of the association in Taiz, Asma’a Al-Ray’i, spoke of the suffering of mothers and families of the abducted, arbitrarily arrested, and forcibly disappeared individuals while waiting for peace resolutions leading to their sons’ freedom. She talked about Abductees’ Mothers Association’s determined efforts in all governorates and under different conditions, attempting to make a difference in order to have their abducted and forcibly disappeared sons released from all prisons in Yemen.

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Mideast

Search for Common Ground: Engagement — Not Isolation — Offers Best Hope for Afghanistan

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY .

An article from Search for Common Ground

August 18, 2021 — Search for Common Ground expresses profound concern for the safety and well-being of the people of Afghanistan and urges the international community to engage with all parties, including the Taliban leadership, who can affect the well-being of the Afghan people. We also urge the Taliban to engage with the full diversity of Afghan society, as well as international actors, to support intra-Aghan reconciliation and the protection of the rights of all Afghan citizens.

“International isolation will hurt all Afghans by exacerbating an already-dire humanitarian crisis and raising the specter of renewed civil war” said Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground. “Engagement offers the best promise of securing progress toward internationally recognized standards to which Afghans – and all people – aspire, which are articulated in the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including the rights of women and ethnic minorities. While international actors work to assure the safety of their colleagues and partners in Afghanistan, we ask that all who are able redouble their commitment to engaging and supporting the Afghan people and society.”

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Question related to this article:

Is peace possible in Afghanistan?

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In Afghanistan, Search for Common Ground will continue its work as guided by the Common Ground Approach. This is a process that: humanizes people using diverse methods devised by local teams who, themselves, embody the dividing lines that they seek to bridge; mobilizes people to advance common interests, understanding that shared success is the best way to build trust and make allies out of adversaries; and systematizes cooperation through changes in institutions and the culture of conflict resolution. This approach does more than resolve disputes; it changes systems.

Search for Common Ground recognizes that the Taliban, Afghan public, and international community share substantial common ground. All parties want Afghanistan to have standing and participate in the community of nations. All parties want a functioning nation-state that protects rights and dispenses services through functioning institutions. And all parties want basic security and dignity for Afghans in their daily lives. From this foundation of shared wants, peace can take shape.

“Afghanistan is facing a new and uncertain phase. Search for Common Ground encourages all parties to work towards a healthy, safe and just society. Isolation would likely lead to renewed violent conflict, and violent conflict is not a solution,” Idriss said.

(Editor’s note: At CPNN we have received an email from the Director of Search for Common Ground, Shamil Idriss, saying “We want you to know that we are not giving up. Our country director, Zuhra Bahman, and her staff are committed to continuing to work in Afghanistan. We are staying the course because we know that intensive and consistent dialogue between all parties is the key to building a safe, healthy, and just society.  . . Please send a gift today to help ensure Zuhra and her staff have the support they need — because they are needed now more than ever. All donations will be matched by a board member and worth 2X as much.”)

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY, Mideast, South Asia,

United Nations: Strengthening women’s meaningful participation in peace processes

. WOMEN’S EQUALITY .

An article from UN Women

Worldwide, complex conflicts and humanitarian crises continue to ravage communities and hinder the overall well-being and prosperity of societies. Women are often the most impacted by these crises, bearing the brunt of conflict and paying a higher price of the devastation – from increased gender discrimination and violence, to the waning of gender-sensitive structures and programming. Still, they remain largely excluded from participating in peace processes, despite overwhelming evidence showing that women’s involvement in peacebuilding and mediation leads to lasting, positive peace that goes well beyond just the silencing of guns.


Left: Kawkab Al-Thaibani. Right: Odi Lagi. Photos courtesy of each.

Although important strides have been made since the adoption of the United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 in 2000, women’s direct participation and representation in formal peace processes continues to be the one area that lags behind in the implementation of the  empowering women leaders to participate in peacebuilding becomes increasingly crucial. Women who participate in peace processes tend to represent broader and more diverse constituencies, ensuring a range of views and interests are represented and peace processes are fully democratized.

Using digital and online tools to foster women’s participation in peacebuilding

Amera Malek is a Syrian activist in the field of Women, Peace and Security and, as the director of MAUJ for Development (previously Radio Souriat), she is familiar with digital technologies and the use of tools to enhance women’s voices and gather support. “We launched our online radio in 2014 as a media initiative and platform that provides a voice for Syrian women, tackling issues affecting them – from honor killings to sexual harassment, and more – and addressing wider societal problems from a gender perspective,” says Malek. “We started out by broadcasting programmes and live talks, bringing together women from all walks of life and taking into account their specific needs and situations.”

As the Syrian conflict went on and power cuts and other disruptions became more frequent, Radio Souriat turned to social media as a new outlet for their activism. “In complex, conflict-afflicted contexts such as the Syrian one, new tools must be deployed to foster participation and mobilize a country-wide support base. On top of our radio work, we’ve taken on producing visual and audio assets for dissemination on social media, which has enabled us to continue to reach out to and engage with communities.”

In June 2020, Radio Souriat changed its name to MAUJ for Development, a community-based, not-for-profit foundation guided by feminist principles. MAUJ works on four strategic programmes: supporting pluralism and community cohesion, promoting women participation in public life, producing gender-sensitive media content, and ensuring sustainable resources. From its headquarters in al-Nabk, MAUJ reaches women across the country and beyond, supporting them to voice their opinions and be informed on issues that directly affect their lives.

While digital tools have created an unprecedented opportunity to democratize peace efforts, making them more transparent and inclusive, some issues remain to be addressed. “We see that women are more likely to participate in online discussions because they can do so anonymously and flexibly, balancing their care burdens,” says Malek. “Yet, we must ensure these methods are underpinned by robust gender analysis. We must continue to leverage the huge potential of digital tools for constituency-building while ensuring that existing discrepancies in accessing digital tools do not further inequalities.”

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Questions for this article

Does the UN advance equality for women?

Prospects for progress in women’s equality, what are the short and long term prospects?

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Bringing together women civil society actors and political representatives

Kawkab Al-Thaibani is the co-founder of Women4Yemen, a network of women working in media, human rights and civil society, which mobilizes and empowers women to foster peace and achieve stability for Yemen. As part of her work, she has been seeking to close the gap between women’s grassroots initiatives for peace and decision-making spaces.

“Yemeni women are facing huge challenges to access negotiating space and get a seat at the peace table,” says Al-Thaibani. “As the conflict in Yemen continues, women’s representation has decreased quite considerably: for the first time in 20 years, women are absent from the newly formed Cabinet. In this context, it is vital that political leaders expand their constituencies and engage closely with civil society to make sure women’s voices are heard.”

“Yemeni women are the carriers of peace and have been instrumental in leading the country to a more stable and peaceful transition,” she adds. “Yet, we don’t have full legitimacy to support peacemaking initiatives and be involved in the peace process in a meaningful way. More work needs to be done at the government and institutional levels to connect women’s grassroots movements with formal representatives who sit at the decision-making table.”

“While it’s important that representatives build strong civil society constituencies, this per se is not enough. To be credible and for constituencies to be strengthened, politicians must ensure that they represent the interests and views of their communities in peace talks, and that they make themselves accountable for shaping the negotiating agenda, ensuring the requests of women are being dealt with.”

Introducing special temporary measures to increase women’s representation in peacebuilding

Odi Lagi, Program Director of the Network of University Legal Aid Institutions (NULAI), Nigeria, highlights the importance and challenges of gender quotas and other temporary special measures in fostering more gender-inclusive peace processes. “I believe the introduction of quotas as a temporary measure to achieve gender equality in political participation is very much necessary,” says Lagi. “We underestimate the importance for women and girls of seeing women in leadership positions and the power of role-modelling: seeing women in power is the first step toward becoming one. However, quotas also have limitations – their introduction by governments has increasingly become a box-ticking exercise rather than a tool to foster positive change. We need to set a 50/50 benchmark if we truly want to see structural transformation in decision-making spaces.”

In Nigeria, a 30 per cent quota for representation in political processes was introduced in the early 2000s. Since then, women’s participation has been declining and, as conflict escalated, women’s voices have been increasingly ignored. “While instruments like quotas have strong transformative potential, there is also a clear danger that they might restrict greater women’s participation and be used by conflict parties as bargaining chips to appeal to minority and women’s groups, while in fact making little progress in advancing meaningful political inclusion,” adds Lagi.

About the Global Convening

From 7-27 July 2021, UN Women, in partnership with CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, hosted the global convening on “Gender-Inclusive Peace Processes: Strengthening Women’s Meaningful Participation through Constituency Building.” The conference explored good practices and strategies for gender-inclusive constituency building and the links between constituency building and women’s meaningful participation in formal peace processes, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It was made possible through a long-term collaboration with, and financial support from, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) in cooperation with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Visit the conference public dashboard on SparkBlue for more information 

Africa, Mideast, United Nations, WOMEN'S EQUALITY, ,

It’s Apartheid, Say Israeli Ambassadors to South Africa

. . HUMAN RIGHTS . .

A article by Ilan Baruch and Alon Liel from Transcend Media Service

 During our careers in the foreign service, we both served as Israel’s ambassador to South Africa. In this position, we learned firsthand about the reality of apartheid and the horrors it inflicted. But more than that – the experience and understanding we gained in South Africa helped us to understand the reality at home.

For over half a century, Israel has ruled over the occupied Palestinian territories with a two-tiered legal system, in which, within the same tract of land in the West Bank, Israeli settlers live under Israeli civil law while Palestinians live under military law. The system is one of inherent inequality. In this context, Israel has worked to change both the geography and the demography of the West Bank through the construction of settlements, which are illegal under international law. Israel has advanced projects to connect these settlements to Israel proper through intensive investment in infrastructure development, and a vast network of highways and water and electricity infrastructure have turned the settlement enterprise into a comfortable version of suburbia. This has happened alongside the expropriation and takeover of massive amounts of Palestinian land, including Palestinian home evictions and demolitions. That is, settlements are built and expanded at the expense of Palestinian communities, which are forced onto smaller and smaller tracts of land.

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Question related to this article:

Israel/Palestine, is the situation like South Africa?

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This reality reminds us of a story that former Ambassador Avi Primor described in his autobiography about a trip that he took with then-Minister of Defense Ariel Sharon to South Africa in the early 1980s. During the visit, Sharon expressed great interest in South Africa’s bantustan project. Even a cursory look at the map of the West Bank leaves little doubt regarding where Sharon received his inspiration. The West Bank today consists of 165 “enclaves” – that is, Palestinian communities encircled by territory taken over by the settlement enterprise. In 2005, with the removal of settlements from Gaza and the beginning of the siege, Gaza became simply another enclave – a bloc of territory without autonomy, surrounded largely by Israel and thus effectively controlled by Israel as well.

The bantustans of South Africa under the apartheid regime and the map of the occupied Palestinian territories today are predicated on the same idea of concentrating the “undesirable” population in as small an area as possible, in a series of non-contiguous enclaves. By gradually driving these populations from their land and concentrating them into dense and fractured pockets, both South Africa then and Israel today worked to thwart political autonomy and true democracy.

This week [June 8, 2021], we mark the fifty-fifth year since the occupation of the West Bank began. It is clearer than ever that the occupation is not temporary, and there is not the political will in the Israeli government to bring about its end. Human Rights Watch recently concluded that Israel has crossed a threshold and its actions in the occupied territories now meet the legal definition of the crime of apartheid under international law. Israel is the sole sovereign power that operates in this land, and it systematically discriminates on the basis of nationality and ethnicity. Such a reality is, as we saw ourselves, apartheid. It is time for the world to recognize that what we saw in South Africa decades ago is happening in the occupied Palestinian territories too. And just as the world joined the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, it is time for the world to take decisive diplomatic action in our case as well and work towards building a future of equality, dignity, and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
_____________________________________________
Ilan Baruch served as Israeli Ambassador to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
Dr. Alon Liel served as Israeli Ambassador to South Africa and as Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

HUMAN RIGHTS, Mideast

#NowIsTheTime – A global call to President Biden

. HUMAN RIGHTS .

A statement from the Now Is the Time Coalition

A global coalition of leaders – from civil society through to academia, politics and Nobel laureates – have joined together in signing an open letter to call on President Biden to help bring an end to Israel’s institutionalized domination and oppression of the Palestinian people and protect their fundamental human rights. See the statement and the full list of signatories below.


(Click on image to enlarge)

14 June 2021
 
Dear President Biden,

We, the undersigned global coalition of leaders – from civil society to business, the arts and faith communities, politics and Nobel laureates – call for U.S. leadership to take action to help bring an end to Israel’s institutionalized domination and oppression of the Palestinian people and protect their fundamental human rights. A sustainable and just peace – for all people – will remain elusive if U.S. policy holds to a political status quo devoid of justice and accountability.

Your administration has committed to a foreign policy “centered on the defense of democracy and the protection of human rights.” More recently, you stated, “I believe the Palestinians and Israelis equally deserve to live safely and securely, and enjoy equal measures of freedom, prosperity, and democracy.” For Palestinians, the space between these statements and their daily lives could not be wider.

Even after a formal ceasefire, Israeli police and settler violence against Palestinians continues. The forced dispossession of Palestinians across the occupied West Bank, including families living in the East Jerusalem neighborhoods of Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan, and aggressive actions by Israeli forces against peaceful protesters and worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, are the latest evidence of a separate and unequal governing system. These policies unravel the social fabric of communities and undermine any progress toward a democratic, just and peaceful future. The logic driving them has led to the recent displacement of 72,000 Palestinians in Gaza who must also survive the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by a 14-year blockade. “

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Question related to this article:

How can a culture of peace be established in the Middle East?

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Moving forward, the United States must address the root causes of the violence which successive administrations have neglected. Your administration must apply concerted diplomatic pressure to help end the ever-expanding discrimination and systemic oppression and ensure accountability for Israeli authorities that violate Palestinian rights.

Only a consistent application of a rights-centered foreign policy can signal to Israel’s leaders that violations of international law will no longer go unaccounted for. Mr. President, now is the time to set a new benchmark in American foreign policy that leads with justice and paves the way toward lasting peace.

Signatories:

Political Figures

Academia

Global Icons

Lawyers and Jurists

University Associations

Media

Faith Leaders

Civil Society Organizations

Civil Society Leaders

Activists

Business Leaders

Creatives

Entertainment Industry

Medical Professionals

(Thank you to Phyllis Kotite, the CPNN reporter for this article.)

HUMAN RIGHTS, Mideast

Thousands of Jews and Arabs Rally in Tel-Aviv for Peace and Coexistence

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY .

Information from Israeli media, Haaretz, Jerusalem Post and Times of Israel

A mass march and rally for peace and coexistence, organized by the movements “Standing Together” and “Breaking the Silence” took place on Saturday (May 22) in Tel Aviv.


Photo from Twitter account of Haaretz

The marchers welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and demanded the government to end its occupation of the West Bank and to make peace with the Palestinians. Their chants included “This is all of our homes,” “We stand together without hatred and without fear,” and “The answer to the Right is Israel and Palestine,”

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Question related to this article:

How can a culture of peace be established in the Middle East?

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The rally was addressed by Israeli novelist David Grossman, author ʻAwdah Bishārāt, Joint List leader Ayman Odeh and Knesset member Tamar Zandberg (Meretz), as well as two of the organizers of the demonstration, Itamar Avnery and Sally Abed.

Ayman Odeh said, “People are speaking about the darkness that is descending on this country,” he said. “ I see light. I see a strong light. Jews and Arabs together will dispel the darkness. You are the light.”

The article in the Times of Israel quoted participants at the rallies who came to “hear different voices from what is in the media” and to see others who want peace and coexistence.

A similar rally with about 200 people took place on Saturday in Jaffa.

Also on Saturday, hundreds protested outside the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Residence in Jerusalem, blaming him for the escalation in Gaza and calling for his resignation.

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY, Mideast, TOLERANCE & SOLIDARITY

Ceasefire can’t hide scale of destruction in Gaza, UN warns, as rights experts call for ICC probe

. . HUMAN RIGHTS . .

An article from the United Nations

The humanitarian community has welcomed the ceasefire agreed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel but warned that the destruction in Gaza will take years, if not decades, to fix.

Speaking from Gaza, Matthias Schmale from the UN relief agency for Palestinians UNRWA, said that there was no “going back to normal” in the enclave, after more than 10 days of rocket fire and airstrike exchanges between the warring parties that have killed more than 250 people and injured thousands.


© UNRWA/Mohamed Hinnawi A tower block lies in ruins in Gaza city following an Israeli air strike.

“Going back to normal life means having to watch very carefully where we are going; unexploded devices, we know that at least one school, one of our 278 schools, where we have established two deeply buried bombs, and we have alerted the Israeli authorities”, he said. “Obviously we cannot just rush back into our buildings and schools, we have to make sure they’re safe.”

The senior UNRWA official also noted that the Kerem Shalom crossing was due to open for several hours on Friday but that for the duration of the clashes, it had not been possible to get people out for medical treatment, or aid reinforcements in.

Mr. Schmale noted that UNRWA staff who are mainly residents of the region said that the violence had been “worse in intensity and terror than 2014”, before echoing the UN Secretary-General’s call  for a meaningful political process to resolve the grievances of both Palestinians and Israelis.

War still looms

“Normality here also means 50 per cent employed and rising…I’m convinced after being here two and a half years that we will be back in war unless underlying causes are not addressed; and from a Gaza perspective that means giving people and especially young people a dignified perspective of a dignified life”, he said.

“If you have your own money and take home your own money to buy food instead of depending on handouts from the UN”, the top UN official added, “you’re less likely to run into groupings like Hamas”.

The UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mark Lowcock, allocated $4.5 million towards the cost of meeting rising needs across Gaza on Friday. The money comes from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), which is in addition to $14.1 million allocated on Thursday. It is expected that an inter-agency Flash Appeal for the occupied Palestinian territory will be issued next week. 

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(click here for the article in Spanish.).)

Question related to this article:

Israel/Palestine, is the situation like South Africa?

How can war crimes be documented, stopped, punished and prevented?

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UNICEF delivers aid containers

The UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, delivered 18 containers of aid on Friday following the resumption of relative calm in the Gaza Strip, through the Kerem Shalom crossing, to support children and families in need.

Among the items delivered were first-aid kits, blood supply bags and solution, fire extinguishers, antibiotics and other infection-control kits, together with 10,000 doses of the Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine.

“We are extremely thankful that a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza strip came into effect at 2am this morning, because the human toll there has been huge”, said Lucia Elmi, UNICEF Special Representative in Palestine. “This will allow families to have much-needed respite and allow for the delivery of much-needed humanitarian assistance and personnel to the Gaza Strip”, she added.

UN rights experts call for ICC probe

UN independent human rights experts on Friday called on all parties  to the conflict in Gaza and Israel to respect the ceasefire, and urged an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) into the attacks on civilian populations and other “gross violations of human rights”, according to a statement released through the UN rights office (OHCHR).

The experts pointed to the forced evictions of Palestinian families living in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan, in Occupied East Jerusalem, as the spark that set off a full-blown war.

They said that at least 222 people, including 63 children, were killed in Gaza and 12 people died in Israel as a result of the fighting.

More than 450 buildings in the Gaza Strip were completely destroyed or damaged by missiles, the statement continued. Among them were six hospitals, nine healthcare centres and a water desalination plant, supplying around 250,000 Palestinians with clean drinking water, as well as a tower which housed media outlets including the Al Jazeera network, and Associated Press (AP). 

‘Asymmetry of power’

“Owing to the vast asymmetry of power, the victims of this conflict are disproportionately Palestinians in Gaza, of whom over 74,000 have been forcibly displaced and made homeless, mostly women and children”, the experts said. 

“The conflict has led to a new wave of unprecedented mass destruction of civilian homes and infrastructure, including electrical grids in Gaza, and indiscriminate or deliberate missile attacks on civilians and residential areas in Israel and Gaza, that violate not only international human rights standards, but amount as well to crimes under international law for which there is individual and State responsibility”, the experts continued.

The experts said that all “indiscriminate or deliberate bombardment of civilians and towers housing civilians, media organizations and refugee camps in Gaza and Israel are war crimes that are, prima facie, not justified by the requirements of proportionality and necessity under international law. All parties who engage in such attacks must bear individual and State responsibility as appropriate.”

Independent Special Rapporteurs, are appointed by the UN Human Rights Council to monitor specific countries or thematic issues.  They serve in their individual capacity and are not UN staff, nor are they paid by the Organization. 

HUMAN RIGHTS, Mideast, United Nations,

Global Calendar of Resistance to Defend Palestine!

TOLERANCE AND SOLIDARITY .

An article from the Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network

Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network urges all Palestinian, Arab and international supporters of Palestine to escalate their organizing and struggle to confront massacres and ethnic cleansing and support Palestinian resistance! There are currently over 200 martyrs throughout Palestine and on the borders with Lebanon, and the entire land of Palestine is rising, from the river to the sea, from Haifa to al-Lydd, from Gaza to Rafah, from Ramallah to Nablus, Umm al-Fahm, Yafa, and, of course, Palestine’s capital, Jerusalem, confronting the most brutal violence of the colonizer with steadfastness, struggle, and a revolutionary promise of a liberated future.

Everywhere, Palestinians in exile and diaspora are also rising, taking the streets, and organizing, to build the struggle for liberation, and people of conscience around the world stand with them, filling the streets of the globe with thousands and millions to confront Zionism and imperialism, and stand firmly and clearly with the Palestinian people, their resistance, return and liberation, from the river to the sea.

In this moment, it is particularly important to highlight our unconditional support for the Palestinian people and their right to resist. It is now and has always been the resistance of the Palestinian people, through all forms of struggle, that defends Palestine from colonization. Our solidarity must affirm Palestinian resistance, Palestinian return, and Palestinian liberation, throughout the entire land of occupied Palestine.

(The List below will be constantly updated – our Global Calendar – please share the link with your friends and comrades!) Your action to support the Palestinian people and the Palestinian resistance, for return to Palestine and liberation from the river to the sea is more important than ever — to honor the martyrs, to stop ethnic cleansing, and to stand with Palestine in 73 years of struggle.

READ THE FULL CALL TO ACTION in English — Arabic — German —French — Swedish

See Emergency Actions below and read our calls to action:
>>  From Gaza to Jerusalem: Confront massacres and ethnic cleansing, support Palestinian resistance!
>> Take Action! #SaveSheikhJarrah and Defend Jerusalem: Boycott Israel, Support Palestinian Resistance

TO ADD YOUR EVENT TO THE CALENDAR: Email us at samidoun@samidoun.net, message us on WhatsApp at +32466904397 or tag us on social media! We know that these events are mainly international and that the Arab people are marching everywhere for Palestine — we will be honored to add Arab events!

PLEASE NOTE: Times and details may change. Wherever we have it, we have linked to the original organizers’ accounts, posters and pages. Please follow these for the latest info – and don’t hesitate to send us updates!

Saturday, 22 May

Australia
Adelaide: Protest for Palestine : keep up the struggle – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Parliament House Steps, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, Australia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/313580253483703/
Brisbane (Meanjin): Save Sheikh Jarrah – Stop the War on Gaza – Free Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Reddacliff Place, Brisbane, Australia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1196514340795942
Cairns – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Esplanade, outside RSL. Info https://www.instagram.com/p/CPFZASDJtFS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Hobart – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Elizabeth St. Mall, Hobart.
Melbourne: Nakba rally (Naarm): 73 years of Israeli colonisation must end – Saturday, 22 May 1:00 pm State Library Victoria 328 Swanston Street Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/922133665236736/
Sydney: Rally for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Archibald Fountain, Sydney. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/766287080680624/
Wollongong: Free Palestine Protest – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Crown St Mall, Wollongong, NSW, Australia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1300687223679105

Bangladesh
Sylhet: Free Palestine Protest – Saturday, 22 May, 2:30 pm, Shahid Minar Sylhet. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/198265548685469/

Belgium
Aalst – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Werfplein, Aalst. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1472403969775985/
Brussels – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Mont des Arts, Brussels, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/952953458794746/
Ghent – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Koning Albertpark, Ghent, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/139299338243638/
Vilvoorde – Saturday, 22 May, 6:30 pm, Europabrug, Vilvoorde, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/313927323473189/
Zelzate – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Grote Markt, Zelzate. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/273008551188905/

Bosnia – Herzegovina
Sarajevo – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Plato Prekoputa Vijecnice, Sarajevo. Info: https://twitter.com/do0kunn/status/1395505739410591744/photo/1

Canada
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island – Saturday, 22 May, 2:15 pm, Victoria Park, Prince Edward Battery, Charlottetown, PEI. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/241621111092405/
Montreal – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Israeli Consulate, 1 Westmount Square, Westmount, Quebec/ Montreal. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPG1zvbHRQc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Saint John, NB – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, King Square S (City Hall), Saint John. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/2238217046310212/
Toronto: Rally for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Yonge-Dundas Square – March to Israeli Consulate, Toronto. More info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPCXBg4A2nx/
Vancouver: Vigil and Rally for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 6 pm, Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver, BC. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/210419577357465/
Surrey, BC: Free Palestine Protest – Saturday, 22 May, 1:30 pm, 128th and 64th Avenue, Surrey, BC
Vernon, BC – Saturday, 22 May, Office of MP Mel Arnold, 3105 – 29th St, Vernon, BC. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1178172509287812/
Winnipeg – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Manitoba Legislative Building, Winnipeg. Info: https://twitter.com/IIIIIIlIIlIIIIl/status/1395505304528359428

Canary Islands
San Fernando – Saturday 22 May, 2:30 pm, Mas Palomas Plaza de los Camellos

Colombia
Bogota, Colombia – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Embassy of Israel, Bogota, Colombia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1966037970238855

Costa Rica
San José: Saturday, 22 May, 10:30 am, Parque Central de San José, Costa Rica. Red de Solidaridad con Palestina Costa Rica

Denmark
Naestved – Saturday, 22 May, 2:30 pm, Dania 15-4700 Naestved

Estonia
Tallinn – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Tammsaare Park, Tallinn, Estonia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2599915946968879/

Finland
Pori: Free Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Porin Tori, Yronjkatu, Pori, Finland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/303366541285962/

France
Agen – manifestation le samedi 22 mai à 15h place du Pin
Angers – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Place du Ralliement, Angers. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/301645164787430/
Bordeaux – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, place de la Victoire. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/372295000850445/?ref=newsfeed
Caen – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Boulevard Marechal Lecler (Monoprix)
Clermont-Ferrand – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Place de Jaude. Info: https://www.facebook.com/Palestine63Solidarite/posts/2280491735420954
Dunkerque – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Place Jean Bart
Gap – rassemblement le samedi 22 mai à 14h30 devant la Préfecture
Le Mans – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Place de la Republique, Le Mans. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/583738729211785/
Lille – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Grand Place, Lille, France. https://www.nord-palestine.org/art-recom-2021-05-19AppelManif.htm
Lyon – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, place Bellecour, Lyon. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/317949699852126/
Manosque – rassemblement porte Saunerie le samedi 22 mai à 17h
Marseille – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Marseille Prefecture
Metz – Saturday, 22 May, 2:30 pm, Parvis des Droits de l’Homme
Montpellier – Saturday, 22 May, 3:30 pm, Place de la Comedie, Montpellier. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/766913020674459/
Mulhouse – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Place de la Bourse, Info: https://www.france-palestine.org/Rassemblement-de-soutien-au-peuple-palestinien-40129
Nancy: Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Place Majinot
Nantes: Saturday, 22 May, 2:30 pm, 50 Otage/Rue de la Barillerie, Nantes. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/476980526957725/
Nice – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Place Garibaldi
Niort – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, place Auzanneau au Clou Bouchet, Niort, France. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/984478415692634/
Paris – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Place de la Republique, Paris. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/822209835364783/
Reims – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Esplanade de la porte mars, Square Colbert, Reims.
Saint-Etienne – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Place Chavanelle, march at 4 pm. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/953880591836575/
Saint-Pierre des Corps – Saturday, 22 May, 10:30 am, Mairie.
Strasbourg – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Place de la Universite. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3137872523150228/?ref=newsfeed
Toulouse: Protest to Support the Palestinian People – Saturday, 22 May, 10:30 am, 22 Mai 2021 10H30 Métro François Verdier – Toulouse Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/events/435688644176928/
Valence – rassemblement Place Porte Neuve samedi 22 mai de 10h à 12h

Germany
Berlin – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Oranienplatz, Berlin. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPHBFdkHQIs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Berlin – Saturday, 22 May, 6 pm, Alexanderstrasse, Berlin (near Park Inn Hotel)
Bonn: Protest for Palestine – Against Apartheid – Saturday, 22 May 2 pm Remigiusplatz Bonn, Germany Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3868609713256013
Düsseldorf – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, DGB Haus, Düsseldorf. Info: https://twitter.com/judy_alchalabi/status/1395505226023673895/photo/1
Siegen – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Bismarckstrasse, Siegen, Germany. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1169709046835116/

Greece
Athens – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Megaro Mousikis Station, Athina. Info: https://www.facebook.com/masarbadil/posts/271686338079667

Ireland
Belfast – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Custom House Square, Belfast, Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2799355397043344/
Derry – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Free Derry Corner, Derry, Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3870291583025331/
Kilkenny/Drogheda – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, The Tholsel, Drogheda. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/796673654320684/
Dublin – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Spire of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/240520177803738/
Dún Pádraig – Stand up for Palestine: Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Market Street, Dun Padraig (Downpatrick), occupied Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/744245109577724/
Carlow Town – Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Town Park
Carrick-on-Suir – Saturday, 22 May, 1:30 pm, Junction Bar
Celbridge – Saturday, 22 May, 11:30 am, Castletown Gates. Info: https://twitter.com/celbridgepsc/status/1393882223020019713
Ennis/Clare County – Saturday, 22 May — Vigils throughout County Clare. To join a vigil, you must register in advance in order to ensure all actions are Covid restriction compliant. Follow directions on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/939739986829202/
Clones – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, The Diamond (Vigil)
Cork – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Cork City Library, Grand Parade
Dungarvan – Saturday, 22 May, 2:30 pm, The Square
Galway (vigil) – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, The Prom, Salthill
Letterkenny  – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Market Square. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/514422979602870/
Limerick – Saturday, 22 May, 12:30 pm, Bedford Row
Maynooth – Saturday, 22 May, 1:30 pm, The Square
Navan – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Kennedy Plaza
Newbridge – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Langton Cross, Newbridge, Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/314084173444558/
New Ross – Saturday, 22 May, 1:45 pm, O’Hanrahan Bridge, New Ross
Portlaoise – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, March from St Peter and Paul’s Church
Tralee – Saturday, 22 May, 1:30 pm, The Square, County Kerry
Waterford – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, John Roberts Square, Waterford, Ireland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/218689323117527/
Wexford – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Wexford Bridge.

Italy
Bassano del Grappa – Saturday, 22 May, 3:30 pm, Piazza Liberta
Brescia – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30 pm, Piazza Vittoria
Campobasso – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30 pm, Piazza Prefettura
Cesena – Saturday, 22 May, 5:30 pm, Piazetta Amendola
Genzano di Roma – Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Piazza Tommaso Franconi, Genzano di Roma, Italy. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/4060351720692350/
Lecco – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Piazza Era
Mantova – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Piazza Martiri di Belfiore
Milano – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Arco della Pace, Milan, Italy.
Monza – Saturday 22 May, 3 pm, Largo Mazzini
Napoli – Saturday, 22 May, 6 pm, Piazza S. Croce
Padova – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Piazza Cavour, Padova (Padua). Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/924644538355834/
Palermo – Saturday, 22 May, 5:30 pm, Piazza Verdi
Poggibonsi – Saturday, 22 May, 3:30 pm, Piazza del Comune
Prato – Saturday 22 May, 3 pm, Piazza delle Carceri
Ravenna – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Piazza Kennedy, Ravenna, Italy. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/982645729164724/
Saronno – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Piazza Volontari del Sangue
Tavagnacco – Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Udine Piazza Primo Maggio, Tavagnacco. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1195149217604619/
Teramo – Saturday, 22 May, 6 pm, Piazza Martiri della Liberta
Torino – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Piazza Castello
Trieste – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30, Piazza Unita
Varese – Saturday, 22 May, 3:30 pm, Piazza San Giuseppe, Varese, Italy. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/866796780388060/
Verona – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Via Giardino Giusti 2

Lithuania
Vilnius – Saturday 22 May, 2 pm, Kudirkos aikste, Vilnius. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/812643903014859/

Netherlands
Almere – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Esplanade, Almere. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/221170156176112/
Amsterdam – Saturday, 22 May, 3:30 pm, Dam, Amsterdam, Netherlands. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/182038517145501/
Heerhugowaard – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Stadsplein
Leeuwarden – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Zaailand, Leeuwarden, Netherlands. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1087878488405650/

New Zealand
Auckland – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Aotea Square, Queen Stret, Auckland, NZ. Updates for all NZ events here: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Palestine-Solidarity-Network-Aotearoa-PSNA-403868133556427/events/
Auckland (Vigil by Jews against Occupation) – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Freyberg Square, Auckland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/817974682158648/
Christchurch – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch, NZ
Dunedin – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Otago Museum Reserve, Great King Street North Dunedin. March from there to the Octagon
Hamilton – Saturday, 22 May, 1:30 pm, Wairere Drive and Naylor Street, Hillcrest, Hamilton
Napier – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Marine Parade, end of Tennyson Street, Napier
Nelson – Saturday, 22 May, 10:15 am, 1903 Square – Trafalgar and Selwyn Place. Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/945585499315977/
Palmerston North – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Te Marae o Hine, Papaioea the Square, Palmerston North, New Zealand. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/4197262880332290/
Rawene – Saturday 22 May, 11 am, No 1 Parnell, Rawene, NZ. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/330336465187878/
Wellington – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Midland Park, 157 Lambton Quay
Whanganui – Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Tram Shed, Taupo Quay, Whanganui, New Zealand. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2553993978229858/
Whangarei – Saturday, 22 May, 8-10 am, Water Street, near Growers Market, Whangarei. Contact: <tim.nurm@gmail.com>

Pakistan
Lahore: Free Palestine – Solidarity with Palestinian Resistance – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30 pm, Lahore Press Club, Lahore, Pakistan. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/140239881476708/

South Africa
Durban – Motorcade for Palestine, Saturday 22 May, 1:30 pm, Meet at Addington Hospital. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPHAxWUB_sv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Spanish State/Spain
Granada, Saturday, 22 May, 7 pm, Fuente de las Batallas, Granada. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPD7rulJ6Pq/
Malaga – Saturday, 22 May, 7 pm, Pza. Merced, Malaga
Mataro, Saturday, 22 May, 6:30 pm, Parc de Cerdanyola
Murcia, Saturday, 22 May, 6:30 pm, Gran Via Alfonso X el Sabio, Murcia. Info: https://www.facebook.com/paca.lopezlabana/posts/1553584368178766
Rivas, Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, P. de la Constitucion, Rivas. Info: https://www.facebook.com/RivasvahaciaPalestina/photos/a.1470807276570142/2852118458439010/

Sweden
Borlänge – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Sveatorget, Borlänge. Info: https://www.facebook.com/rula.abughoush.3/posts/10165020184790005
Helsingborg, Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Gustaf Adolfs Torg, Helsingborg. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/304406581286095/
Malmo, Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Möllevångstorget Malmö, Malmo, Sweden. Info: https://www.facebook.com/masarbadil/

Switzerland
Geneva, Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Palais Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPEJ78cpGhQ/

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Question for this article

Presenting the Palestinian side of the Middle East, Is it important for a culture of peace?

(continued from the left column)

United Kingdom
Bangor, Gwynedd – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Pontio by memorials, Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/328890178605492/
Birmingham – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Victoria Square, Birmingham. Info: https://twitter.com/TINYCUPlD/status/1395490886532964353
Bournemouth: Palestine Solidarity Demo – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm ,Exeter Road march to Bournemouth Square. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/493603321888560/
Bristol – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, March from Shah Jalal Mosque to College Green, Bristol, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/311249393908827/
Cardiff – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, BBC Cymru building, Cardiff, Wales. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPAxiIcA2Ix/
Derby – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, The Spot, Derby city Centre, Derby, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/539803320352695/
Dundee – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Dundee, City Square. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/502988511048117/
Glasgow – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Sauciehall St (M&S Picket), Glasgow, Scotland. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPHFI92gpzD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Glasgow – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Car Caravan, 30 Finnieston St, Glasgow, Scotland. Info: https://twitter.com/fauziaahmad07/status/1395514539320414214/photo/1
Huddersfield – Saturday 22 May, 3 pm, St George’s Square, Huddersfield
Hull – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Victoria Square. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/492148565429770/
Inverness – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Town House. Info: https://www.facebook.com/HighlandPalestine/posts/4458040374240039
Leamington Spa  – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Leamington Spa, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3081528072066096/
Leeds – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Leeds Town Hall, Leeds. Info: https://twitter.com/chahrazedtft/status/1395526794716004352/photo/1
Leeds – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, BBC Headquarters. Info: https://twitter.com/MIAxAlix/status/1395491926120570890
Liverpool – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Church St, Liverpool. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPEi2-XH61o/
London: National Demo for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Speakers Corner (Marble Arch Tube), London, UK.
Lowestoft – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Outside Britten enter, Lowestoft, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/851092055752578/
Manchester: Speak Out for Palestinian Resistance – Saturday, 22 May, 12 PM, Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/950810015714728/
Newcastle-upon-Tyne: Protest for Palestine! – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Marks and Spencer, 77-87 Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/19684705596392/
Northampton: March 4 Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, BBC Radio Northampton, Abington St. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/320235456125245/
Peterborough: Protest 4 Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Peterborough Town Center, Peterborough. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/174750394539852/
Plymouth: Stop Bombing Gaza – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, New George St, Plymouth. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/465720878064565/
Pontypridd – Saturday 22 May, 11 am, Mill Street near the bridge, Pontypridd, Wales. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/246215377292865
Sheffield – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Sheffield City Hall, Sheffield. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPElXtmJOBa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Swindon – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Morrisons, Regents Circus, Swindon. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/830100164256504/
Waterdale: Vigil for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Sir Nigel Gresley Square, Waterdale, UK. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/299139038487186/
Wrexham: Support Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 11:30 am, Queen Square, Wrexham, Wales. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1399877630380056/

United States
Anaheim, CA: Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Brookhurst and Bail, Anaheim, CA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2796028500727793/
Anaheim, CA – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Car Caravan from Little Arabia to Santa Ana. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CO-2TppABEH/
Anchorage, AK: Stand with Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Seward Highway and Northern Lights, Anchorage. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/507826220366469/
Ann Arbor, MI: March for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Ann Arbor City Hall, 301 E Huron Street, Ann Arbor, MI. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1390478371322456
Annandale-on-Hudson, NY/Bard College – Saturday, 22 May, 8 pm, Fisher Center, Bard College. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CO2q7k8ALVH/
Athens, GA – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, UGA Arch, University of Georgia, Athens.Info: https://twitter.com/UGA_SJP/status/1395473437414600710
Baltimore – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, City Hall, 100 Holiday St, Baltimore, MD. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPHRSHCgyrt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Bar Harbor, ME – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Village Green, Bar Harbor, Maine
Binghamton, NY – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Binghamton University Academic A Building, Binghamton. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/474065420554402
Boston – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Copley Square. Info: https://twitter.com/DeccaniBhai/status/1395528834208964610
Buffalo: Defend Palestine – Support Palestinians Resisting in Sheikh Jarrah – Saturday, 22 May 4 pm Buffalo City Hall 65 Niagara Square Buffalo, NY More info: https://twitter.com/freepal27575746
Charlotte, NC – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, First Ward Park, 301 E 7th St, Charlotte. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPB_HAwgA8K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Chicago Hyde Park Vigil – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Nichols Park. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/937002380435047/
Coldwater, MI – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Four Corners, Coldwater, Michigan. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/308516420873710/
Denver, CO – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Colorado State Capitol (West Steps), Denver. Info: https://twitter.com/sarahpaira/status/1395432461073403907/photo/1
Fargo, ND – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Island Park, Fargo, North Dakota. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/5518948114844479/
Fayetteville, NC – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Cross Creek Linear Park Fountain, Fayetteville, NC. facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1195980977527552/
Flagstaff, AZ – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Heritage Square, Flagstaff, Arizona. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/291128139324625/
Flint, MI – Saturday, 22 May, 6:30 pm, 303 E Kearsley Street, Flint, Michigan. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/930422421024044/
Fort Myers, FL – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, meet outside Fort Myers Public Library and march from there. Info: https://fb.me/e/QRXMsDni
Grand Rapids, MI – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, 101 Fulton St East, Grand Rapids. Michigan.
Green Bay: Rally for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Leicht Memorial Park, Dousman St, Green Bay, WI. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3909690445781451/
Harrisonburg, VA – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Court Square, Harrisonburg, Virginia. Info: https://twitter.com/AdbudMan/status/1395522379560914944/photo/1
Honolulu: Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Atkinson and Ala Moana, Honolulu, Hawaii. Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/782277002426898/
Houston, TX – Saturday, 22 May, 12 – 3 pm, Galleria/Post Oak and Westheimer, Houston, Texas. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPESoTBAv6G/
Irvine, CA: Rally for Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, 1 Civic Center, Irvine CA. Contact tazeenk@hotmail.com for details.
Kansas City, MO – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, JC Nichols Memorial Fountain, 50 W 47th St, Kansas City, Missouri. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/469619377447707/
Kirkland, Washington – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Central Way, Kirkland, WA, USA
Lancaster, PA – Solidarity with Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 5:30 pm, Penn Square, Lancaster, PA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/464408991284134/
Las Vegas – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPFLJK7NEHW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Little Rock, AR – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Clinton Presidential Center, Little Rock, Arkansas. Info: https://twitter.com/m7mdkurd/status/1395490595095945219l
Los Angeles – Black and Brown Solidarity with Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, MacArthur Park, Los Angeles, CA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1163196180772409/
Minneapolis, MN – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, Bryant Square Park, Minneapolis. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/177130494323092/
Missoula, MT – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, Missoula County Courthouse, Missoula, Montana. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1438497219829087/
Modesto, CA – March for Palestine! Saturday, 22 May, 10 am, Vintage Faire Mall, Modesto. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/308984160721348/
Modesto, CA – Free Palestine Peaceful Protest – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, 2020 W Briggsmore Ave, Modesto, CA.
Morgantown, WV – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Monongalia County Courthouse, Morgantown, West Virginia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/227910319098761/
New Brunswick, NJ – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30 pm, 126 College Ave, New Brunswick, NJ. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/126194992828736
New Haven, CT: Solidarity with Palestine and Colombia – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, New Haven Green, New Haven, CT, USA. More info: https://twitter.com/f_maviglia/status/1392838612811665410
NYC/Queens: Sunnyside Rally to Defend Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Queens Blvd and 46th St, Queens, New York. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/319268132914968
Norfolk, VA – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, St Pauls Blvd and City Hall Ave, Norfolk, VA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/905707356642615/
Northfield, MN – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am, Bridge Square Fountain, Northfield, Minnesota. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/291947609248043/
Oakland, CA – Saturday 22 May, 4 pm, Madison Park, Oakland. Info: https://twitter.com/whadayamin/status/1395491391531208704/photo/1
Oklahoma City, OK – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, 401 E California Ave, Oklahoma City. Info: https://twitter.com/HoudaElyazgi/status/1395519445158834178/photo/1
Orlando, FL – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, City Commons, 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, Florida. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1145526945962584/
Pensacola, FL – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, Plaza Ferdinand VII, Pensacola, FL. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2520866384886415/
Philadelphia, PA – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Rittenhouse Square Park (18th and Walnut, Philadelphia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1239961729757163/
Pittsburgh, PA: Palestine Rally – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Flagstaff Hill, Schenley Park, Pittsburgh. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/181568417177736/
Portland, ME – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, City Hall, Portland, Maine. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/346675933543990/
Portland, OR – Saturday, 22 May, 3 pm, City Hall, 1200 SW 5th Ave, Portland. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPBWU1FBXhS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Raleigh, NC – Saturday, 22 May, 2 pm, NC State Capitol, Raleigh, NC. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2896942667212781/
Rochester, MN – Saturday, 22 May, 4:30 pm, Car Caravan, 1738 E Center St, Rochester, MN. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/378220080195132/
Salt Lake City: Solidarity with Palestine and Colombia, Saturday, 22 May, 12:30 pm, Wallace Bennett Federal Building, Salt Lake City, UT. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/301980271504392/
San Antonio, TX – Saturday, 22 May, 6 pm 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1643108575889138/
San Francisco, CA – Saturday, 22 May, 11 am Gather at 16th & Mission, 1 pm rally at Civic Center, San Francisco. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPC22V0AZWg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Santa Clarita, CA – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, Valencia and McBean, Santa Clarita. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/878494799398084/
Santa Rosa, CA – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Santa Rosa Courthouse. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/554431025552123/
Silverdale, WA – Saturday, 22 May, 12 pm, Old Mill Park, Silverdale, WA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/298705821746883/
Spokane: Free Palestine – Saturday, 22 May, 1 pm, BA Clark Park, 50 W Garland Ave, Spokane. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/486774365894687
Tallahassee, FL – Saturtday, 22 May, 6 pm, Old Capital Bldg Steps, Tallahassee, FL. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPEJZJXAKOu/
Tampa, FL – Saturday, 22 May, 5 pm, Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPFHadEAeWv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Tucson, AZ – Saturday, 22 May, 5:30 pm, Armory Park. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPJKTzcHj5U/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Tulsa, OK – Saturday, 22 May, 4 pm, 71st and Memorial, Tulsa. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/500574884322583/
Walnut Creek, CA – Saturday, 22 May, 12:30 pm, Civic Park, Walnut Creek.

Sunday, 23 May

Australia
Canberra – Sunday, 23 May, 3:30 pm, Parliament House
Darwin – Sunday, 23 May, 9:30 am, Nightcliffe Markets
Perth: Stand with Palestine – Stop Bombing Gaza! Save Sheikh Jarrah! Sunday, 23 May, 11 am, Forrest Place, Perth, WA, Australia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2954733614806101

Belgium
Antwerp – Sunday 23 May, 4 pm, Park Soor Noord
Asse – Sunday, 23 May, 5 pm, Zellik, Asse, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/3871338399656215/
Halle – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Koning Albert 1 Park, Halle, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/934058387416866/
Lommel – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Huis van de Stad, Lommel. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/4084714274952401/
Sint-Truiden – Sunday, 23 May, 11 am, Grote Mart, Sint-Truiden, Belgium. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/4043735885720334/

Canada
Calgary – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm, Olympic Plaza, Calgary, Alberta. Info: https://twitter.com/llwatann/status/1395490931529318401/photo/1
Edmonton – Sunday, 23 May, 6 pm, Hawrelak Park, 9330 Groat Road, NW, Edmonton, Alberta. Info: https://twitter.com/Rabougouche/status/1395520094822813700/photo/1
Kelowna, BC – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Stuart Park, Kelowna. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/767998364086858/
Ottawa – Sundaay, 23 May, 1 pm, Parliament Hill, Ottawa. Info: https://twitter.com/Mimi_088/status/1395492213992349697

France
Marseille – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Vieux Port
Ivry – Sunday, 23 May, 1:45 pm, Mairie d’Ivry
Paris – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm,Place de la Republique, Paris. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/547747926234908/

Guatemala
Guatemala City – Sunday, 23 May, 11 am, Obelisco Zona 10, Guatemala City. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/332470798237245/

Italy
Bergamo – Sunday, 23 May, 5:30 pm, Piazza Matteotti
Biella – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm, Piazza Martiri
Ferrara – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Piazza Castello

Morocco
Rabat – Sunday, 23 May, 10 am

Netherlands
Breda – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Chasseveld
Den Haag – Sunday, 23 May, 2:30 pm, The Hague, the Netherlands. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/181109563894185/
Maastricht – Sunday, 23 May, 5 pm, Vrijthof, Maastricht, the Netherlands. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/348750176675433/
Terneuzen – Sunday, 23 May, 1:30 pm, Vliegende Vaart
Utrecht – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Jaarbeursplein, Netherlands. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/515780226268825/

Pakistan
Karachi – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Karachi, Pakistan. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/317193920027697/
Multan – Sunday, 23 May, 4:30 pm, Northern Bypass Chowk

Portugal
Beja – Sunday, 23 May, 5 pm, Praca de Republica, Beja, Portugal. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/459500111812306/

South Africa
Cape Town – Sunday, 23 May, 7:15 am, Ladies Cycling Squad Ride for Palestine, Green Point Lighthouse, Cape Town. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/881774359082961/
Cape Town – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Three Anchor Bay, Beach Road. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPGLrFADGKK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Durban – Sunday, 23 May, 10 am, Durban Beachfront. Info: https://twitter.com/CheMangera/status/1395491450956169217/photo/2
East London – Saturday, 23 May, 11 am, Buffalo City College, 8 Lukin Rd, Selborne, East London, Eastern Cape. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPIYzR6jB31/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Johannesburg – Sunday, 23 May, 10 am, SA Zionist Federation, 2 Elray St, Raedene Estate, Johannesburg. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPAttsHDoJl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Spanish State/Spain
Almeria – Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, El Ejido (Salida en Cruce Boulevard con C/Manolo Esccobar), Almeria
Barcelona – Sunday, 23 May, 6 pm, Pl. Catal, Barcelona, Catalonia. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPF6k4Erv7I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

United Kingdom
Aberdeen – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Nelson St/Marischal Square, Aberdeen, Scotland.  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/266089264892559/
Edinburgh – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Foot of the Mound, Edinburgh, Scotland. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/479122976535232/
Falmouth – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm, The Moor, Falmouth, Cornwall, England. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/862014761017049
Hitchin  – Sunday, 23 May, 11 am, Windmill Hill, Hitchin. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/144983220882950/
Lichfield – Sunday 23 May, 11 am, Speakers’ Corner, Lichfield
Scunthorpe – Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, Britannia Corner, Scunthorpe. Info: https://twitter.com/hasina47092933/status/1395495061106876421/photo/1

United States
Austin TX – Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, Texas State Capitol, Austin, Texas. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPDtdd4g9fc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Boston, MA – Sunday, 23 May, 12:30 pm, Puma Store, Sylvester Baxter Riverfront Park, Assembly Sq, Somerville. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPJNf_iAbkd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Bronx/NYC, New York – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx, NY. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/515836059771438/
Dallas, TX: Action for Palestine – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Belo Garden, 1014 Main St, Dallas TX. FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/297856978552708/
Detroit, MI – Sunday, 23 May, 1 pm, Granite City Detroit. 100 Renaissance Center. Info: https://twitter.com/miriamh____/status/1395491438549422090/photo/1
Fremont, CA – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Paseo Padre Parkway and Stevenson Blvd, Fremont. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/162120572521262/
Janesville, WI – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Milton Ave Post Office, Janesville, Wisconsin. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1662800514107679/
Los Angeles, CA – Sunday, 23 May, 6:45 pm, 3rd St and Alexandria, Los Angeles. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/220304329600619/
Louisville, KY – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Waterfront Park – Flock of Finns, March Starts 4:30 pm, Louisville, Kentucky. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/929545214446537/
Manchester, NH – Sunday, 23 May, 1 pm, Veterans Park, 725 Elm St, Manchester, New Hampshire – march down Elm Street
New Orleans, LA – Sunday, 23 May, 5 pm, NOLA Public Library, 219 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, Louisiana. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/471351934149177/
Norfolk, VA – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm, St Pauls Blvd and City Hall Ave, Norfolk, Virginia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/370827111026779/
Petaluma, CA – Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, Penry Park, Petaluma, CA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/203503041616497/
Peoria, IL – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Main and University, Peoria. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/803485960283264/
Richland, WA: Day of Action for Palestine – Sunday, 23 May, 11 am, , John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/481108349863740/
San Diego – Sunday, 23 May, 3 pm, County Admin, 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPJN_vxA5rf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Tysons Corner, VA – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, Bloomingdales, Tysons Corner VA. Info: https://twitter.com/piscesdeee/status/1395490913091268610/photo/1
Urbana-Champaign, IL – Sunday, 23 May, 2 pm, Independent Media Center, march to Main Quad/Foellinger Auditorium. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPEplEwgAAh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Vienna, VA – Sunday, 23 May, 4 pm, 8300 Boone Blvd, Vienna, VA. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPKA6iXgnFX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Westlake Village (Los Angeles) – Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Westlake Boulevard. Info: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPG02bkg8lg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Worcester, MA: Sunday, 23 May, 12 pm, Worcester City Hall, 455 Main Street, Worcester, CA. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/499459607843221/

global, Mideast, TOLERANCE & SOLIDARITY,

General strike in Palestine

TOLERANCE AND SOLIDARITY .

Facebook entry by Elias D’eis,
 · 
Today [May 18] will go down in history as one of the most powerful days of Palestinian non-violence resistance against the Israeli aggressions. Palestinians across the occupied West Bank, Gaza, and inside Israel took part in “GENERAL STRIKE” to protest against the Israeli occupation, aggressions in Jerusalem, and the bombardment in Gaza!!


(click on image to enlarge)

Thousands and thousands of brothers and sisters from all walks of life gathered together for collective actions and to demand our rights of living a life that is filled with dignity, equality, and respect. We all share the trauma and fear of living under constant threat, never knowing which moment the occupiers will seize more of our lands, kill more of our children and take our homes away from us.

(continued in the right column)

Question for this article

Presenting the Palestinian side of the Middle East, Is it important for a culture of peace?

(continued from the left column)

Holy Land Trust stands committed to this fight and believes that Palestinians today will the forebearers of peace tomorrow! We stand united from the Mediterranean to the Jordan river, from the north to the south in our struggle to finally achieve a reality where everyone lives in peace and harmony in the Holy Land.

But we also want to remind you, our beloved followers, that our struggle cannot be won in isolation. We need the entire world to come together and call upon the Israeli government to end their aggression and occupation of Palestinians. We call upon you again to reach out to your leaders and governments in whatever way you can and urge them to publicly take a stand for Palestinians. We call for an end to all violence because we firmly believe that if we do not break the cycle of violence and adopt the path of peace, lasting harmony cannot be achieved in the Holy Land!

Please dont forget to spread the message as much as you can! We are forever grateful for the support.

#FreePalestine #Gaza_Under_Attack #saveseikhjarrah #endisraeliaggression #Palestine

Mideast, TOLERANCE & SOLIDARITY

Amnesty International: Pattern of Israeli attacks on residential homes in Gaza must be investigated as war crimes

. . HUMAN RIGHTS . .

An article from Amnesty International

Israeli forces have displayed a shocking disregard for the lives of Palestinian civilians by carrying out a number of airstrikes targeting residential buildings in some cases killing entire families – including children – and causing wanton destruction to civilian property, in attacks that may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity, said Amnesty International today [May 17].


Lamya al-Atar and her three children were killed in an Israeli air strike on their home in Gaza on 14 May 2021©Private

The organization has documented four deadly attacks by Israel launched on residential homes without prior warning and is calling for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to urgently investigate these attacks. The death toll in Gaza continues to climb with at least 198 Palestinians killed including 58 children and more than 1,220 injured. Ten people in Israel, including two children, have been killed and at least 27 injured by Palestinian attacks.

“There is a horrific pattern emerging of Israel launching air strikes in Gaza targeting residential buildings and family homes – in some cases entire families were buried beneath the rubble when the buildings they lived in collapsed.  In the cases documented below, no prior warning was given to the civilian residents to allow them to escape. Under international humanitarian law, all parties must distinguish between military targets and civilian objects and direct their attacks only at military objectives. When carrying out attacks, parties must take all feasible precautions to minimize harm to civilians,” said Saleh Higazi, Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

“Although the Israeli military has given no explanation of what military objectives it was targeting in these attacks, it is hard to imagine how bombing residential buildings full of civilian families without warning could be considered proportionate under international humanitarian law. It is not possible to use large explosive weapons, like aircraft bombs that have a blast radius of many hundreds of meters, in populated areas without anticipating major civilian casualties.

“By carrying out these brazen deadly attacks on family homes without warning Israel has demonstrated a callous disregard for lives of Palestinian civilians who are already suffering the collective punishment of Israel’s illegal blockade on Gaza since 2007.”

The Israeli army claims that it only attacks military targets and has justified airstrikes on residential buildings on that basis. However, residents told Amnesty International that there were no fighters or military objectives in the vicinity at the time of the attacks documented.

“Deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian property and infrastructure are war crimes, as are disproportionate attacks. The International Criminal Court has an active investigation into the situation in Palestine and should urgently investigate these attacks as war crimes. States should also consider exercising universal jurisdiction over those who commit war crimes. Impunity only works to fuel the pattern of unlawful attacks and civilian bloodshed, which have we have repeatedly documented in previous Israeli military offensives on Gaza,” said Saleh Higazi.

At least 152 residential properties in Gaza have been destroyed since 11 May, according to the Gaza-based human rights organization, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Public Works and Housing in Gaza, Israeli strikes have destroyed 94 buildings, comprising 461 housing and commercial units while 285 housing units have been severely damaged and rendered uninhabitable.

(continued in right column)

(click here for the article in French or click here for the article in Spanish.).)

Question related to this article:

Israel/Palestine, is the situation like South Africa?

(continued from left column)

According to United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) more than 2,500 people have been made homeless due to the destruction of their homes and more than 38,000 people have been internally displaced and have sought shelter in 48 UNRWA schools across Gaza.

Indiscriminate rocket-fire by Palestinian armed groups towards civilian areas of Israel has also killed and injured civilians and damaged homes and other civilian properties. The rockets fired from Gaza into Israel are imprecise and their use violates international humanitarian law which prohibits the use of weapons that are by nature indiscriminate. These attacks should also be investigated by the ICC as war crimes.

Amnesty International has previously published evidence that the Israeli military had a deliberate policy of targeting family homes  during the 2014 conflict.

Devastating attacks on family homes

In one of the heaviest episodes of bombardment since the latest fighting began, between 1am and 2am on 16 May Israel carried out airstrikes against residential buildings and streets in Gaza City. The attacks completely destroyed two residential buildings belonging to the Abu al-Ouf and al-Kolaq families – killing 30 people – 11 of them children. 

Gaza’s Ministry of Labour building was also destroyed in the attacks. The attack blocked al-Wehda Street, one of the main roads leading to the main hospital in Gaza, al-Shifa.

The families residing in the four-storey al-Ouf building, which included residential apartments and shops, received no prior warning – they were buried beneath the rubble in the attack. 

Yousef Yassin, a medic from al-Shifa Hospital, was one of the first to arrive on the scene of al-Ouf Building after the attack and helped pull survivors from the wreckage with the Red Crescent. He described the scene to Amnesty International as one of “great destruction”.

“I helped get out four dead [bodies], but there were many more. It was very hard. There was no warning, so people were inside their home sitting together, and this is a lively, bustling area,” he said. 

Shortly before midnight on 14 May Israeli air strikes hit the three-storey building of the al-Atar family in Beit Lahia killing 28-year-old Lamya Hassan Mohammed Al-Atar her three children Islam, seven, Amira, six, and Mohammed an eight-month-old baby. 

Lamya’s father, Hassan Al-Atar, a civil defence officer told Amnesty International he headed to the scene of the attack with an ambulance and rescue team after a relative called him with news of the attack.  “He told me that our home had been bombed and [he was] stuck under the rubble [with his] wife and children,” he said.

“I arrived at the house, which is made up of three stories – 20 people live there – I tried to find people, but I could not. Then the rescue team arrived to help and we eventually found my daughter, a mother of three, with her children, one of whom was a baby, under one of the cement pillars of the house; all of them were dead. The other residents seem to have managed to escape from an opening after the bombing and got to the hospital. I was shocked,” he said.
 
Nader Mahmoud Mohammed Al-Thom, from al-Salatin neighbourhood in Beit Lahia, described how his home where he lives with eight others was attacked without any warning shortly after midnight on 15 May.

“There was no warning missile, no warning call, the house was bombed, and we were inside. Thank God that the civil defence and by sheer chance was close by and saved us from under the rubble, thank God no one died. We had injuries but not serious, when we got out I saw a fire at the gate of the house, then the ambulance took us to the hospital. I think this is when I lost consciousness. Thank God no one was badly hurt but we lost our house. We are now in the street; we do not know where to go what to do.” 

His family sought shelter at an UNRWA school but the school they arrived at was closed when they arrived and they had to sleep outside in the school yard. His entire home was destroyed including his clothes, money and paperwork and all their belongings.

In addition to residential homes, Israeli attacks have damaged water and electricity infrastructure as well as medical facilities and halted the operations of the North Gaza Seawater Desalination plant, which supplies water to more than 250,000 people.  

HUMAN RIGHTS, Mideast