News / protest
Hundreds show up in support of Global Sumud Flotilla
A sea of people stood on and around Pero’s Bridge on Thursday evening as campaigners unfurled what they claim is the “biggest” Palestinian flag in the South West.
The unplanned demonstration was preceded by a protest at Cascade Steps, which saw hundreds from Bristol show up in solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla boats that were intercepted by Israeli authorities.
Part of the global “All to the Streets for Gaza” action call, the protest saw campaigners express concerns about the safety of those aboard the Flotilla, including 13 UK delegates, all of whom were en route to Gaza with tonnes of humanitarian aid.
is needed now More than ever
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Speaking on prime minister Keir Starmer’s lack of response, a campaigner said: “When will he do something? 680,000 estimated dead Palestinians, nothing. 1.9m displaced, nothing. No functioning hospitals, nothing. 70 per cent infrastructure destroyed, nothing.
“Now, 13 of the very people he has sworn to protect have been illegally kidnapped by a foreign entity and fucking nothing. Where is the outrage? We need to be doing something. This is absolutely ridiculous.”
Some placards that protesters held read: “The water remembers”, while others read “Zionism is Racism”.
Green Councillor for Cotham, Mohamed Makwai, started his speech with a chant to free Palestine.
“This wasn’t an accident. This wasn’t a misunderstanding. This was a state piracy,” he said as crowds applauded in agreement.
He continued: “This was a kidnapping of British citizens along with a dozens of international activists, whose only crime was trying to deliver baby formula, medicine and aid to the people of Gaza.
“How many more war crimes do we have to witness before the world says enough?”.
As he concluded his speech, he asked: “Why is there silence from Downing Street?”
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Following the protest on Cascade Steps, hundreds spontaneously marched to Temple Meads, forming a blockade outside the station’s entrance. Some protesters pounded on drums, with loud chants of “Free Free Palestine” filling the atmosphere.
Buses arriving at the station were forced to reroute, as police officers attempted to contain the situation.
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Main photo: Karen Johnson
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