Widespread Arab Demonstrations in Support of Gaza and Lebanon
On October 25, 2024, tens of thousands of demonstrators across several Arab countries rallied in solidarity with Gaza and Lebanon, condemning what they described as a genocidal war led by Israel, backed by the United States. Major protests occurred in Yemen, Morocco, Jordan, Tunisia, and Mauritania, highlighting a significant wave of support for the Palestinian cause.
In Yemen, demonstrators filled the streets of major cities like Sana'a, Sa'dah, and Hodeidah after Friday prayers, raising slogans and displaying images of leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah. A unified statement from the protests emphasized Yemen's readiness to escalate resistance against perceived American and Israeli aggression, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to supporting the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples. The Houthis have also intensified their military actions, targeting vessels linked to Israel in the Red Sea and launching missile attacks on Tel Aviv.
In Morocco, a vibrant student-led movement has emerged, rejecting normalization with Israel and advocating for Palestinian rights. Over the past year, students have organized more than 400 demonstrations, boycotting Israeli academics and promoting solidarity with Gaza. This movement underscores a growing desire among Moroccan youth to actively support the Palestinian cause at an academic level.
Jordan saw hundreds march in Amman, demanding the annulment of the peace treaty with Israel, fueled by outrage over the violence in northern Gaza. Demonstrators called for stronger support for the Palestinian resistance, highlighting the widespread discontent with Israeli policies.
In Tunisia, a major march organized by the 'Coordination of Joint Action for Palestine' condemned the Israeli assaults on northern Gaza. Participants voiced their opposition to American and French support for Israel, demanding an end to hostilities in the region. Similarly, in Mauritania, thousands marched from the Grand Mosque to the UN representation, calling for international pressure on Israel to cease its aggression.
These demonstrations reflect a growing wave of Arab solidarity with Gaza and Lebanon, as public sentiment increasingly calls for severing ties with Israel and enhancing support for the Palestinian cause. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating over 143,000 Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction since the escalation began on October 7, 2023.
