Israel-Gaza conflict: thousands attend pro-Palestinian rally in Belfast
Insults were exchanged with a small group of those carrying Israeli flags
Last updated 15th Oct 2023
Thousands took part in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Belfast today (Sunday).
After gathering at Writers Square, the protestors marched along Royal Avenue before holding a rally at Belfast City Hall.
When the group arrived, Insults were exchanged as a small group carrying Israeli flags confronted the demonstration.
The protest took place against the backdrop of the deepening conflict in the Middle East following an unprecedent attack on Israel from Hamas militants just over a week ago
Similar rallies took part in London, Glasgow and Manchester.
The United Nations, senior EU figures and aid agencies have all expressed alarm as many Palestinians struggle to flee ahead of a "co-ordinated" offensive in the Gaza Strip involving air, ground and naval forces.
The PSNI mounted a significant security operation which included closing many of the main arterial roads in the city centre.
As the rally neared City Hall, a small number of people stood in front of the gates carrying Israel flags.
There were angry scenes as the two sets of demonstrators exchanged insults and police moved in to keep them apart.
Taking part in the pro-Palestinian rally was Dr Raied Al-Wazzan from the Northern Ireland Council for Racial Equality.
He said: "We need to send a message to the Palestinian people that we support you, we are with you, we are against the bombardment of civilian people.
"We are against the blockade of Gaza.
"We want people to live an equal life, we want them to have the same rights as everyone else."
Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan was among the marchers at the front of the rally.
Earlier, he had unveiled a mural in west Belfast in support of Palestinians.