String of pro-Palestine protests happening across Northern Ireland
Last updated 20th Oct 2023
Thousands of people are expected to take part in rallies across Northern Ireland in support of Palestine this afternoon (Saturday).
Demonstrations are set to get underway in Londonderry and Omagh at one O’clock.
In Belfast protestors will gather at City Hall at 3pm before making the journey to the BBC’s headquarters.
The protests are taking place against the backdrop of the deepening conflict in the Middle East following an unprecedent attack on Israel from Hamas militants two weeks ago.
Where are the protests happening?
- Omagh Court house 1pm.
- Londonderry 1pm Guildhall Square.
- Belfast 3pm gathering at City Hall.
Similar rallies are also happening across other parts of the UK.
Tony Doherty, Chairperson of the Bloody Sunday Trust, spoke to Downtown/ Cool Fm ahead of the rally happening at Derry’s Guildhall Square.
He said: “Our view of the conflict is that there needs to be an immediate ceasefire.
“There needs to be a renewed and energised focus on creating a lasting peace in Israel-Palestine.
“There needs to be a renewed emphasis on peace and peace building and resolving the long-term disputes and conflicts that have endured over the decades.
“There probably needs to be a UN peace keeping force sent to Gaza and the West Banks.
“Obviously, there must be agreements around that, but it is very clear from the evidence over the last decades that there is very little chance of the conditions for peace being created between Israel and the Palestinian people.
“So, it needs positive outside intervention.”
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