Statue of Israel's First President Removed Amid Protests
On November 2, 2024, activists from the Palestine Action group removed statues of Chaim Weizmann, Israel's first president, displayed at the University of Manchester. This action coincided with the 107th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration, a pivotal document in the establishment of Israel. The Palestine Action group cited ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon, as well as Britain's support for Israel, as motivations for their actions. They highlighted the historical significance of Weizmann's meetings with British officials in the early 20th century, linking these discussions to the training of armed Zionist groups and the displacement of Palestinians.
The group emphasized that the legacy of these actions continues to impact Palestinians today, with ongoing policies of displacement and violence.
Mass Demonstrations in London
In a related event, tens of thousands participated in a demonstration in London on the same day, advocating for an end to the Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. The protest, organized by various non-governmental organizations, began at 10 Downing Street and concluded at the US Embassy. Participants chanted slogans such as "Free Palestine" and "Stop arming Israel," while counter-protests were held by supporters of Israel.
The Balfour Declaration, issued on November 2, 1917, by then British Foreign Secretary Arthur James Balfour, promised support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine, a promise that has had lasting repercussions for the Palestinian people. The declaration was made during the British mandate over Palestine and has been a focal point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
