Pro-Palestinian protesters gather in Manchester amid travel disruption
The Bee Network suspended some tram services due to the demonstration
Protesters calling for an end to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have gathered in Manchester.
Demonstrations have been taking place in the city's St. Peter's Square every Saturday since the conflict erupted following a Hamas attack on October 7th.
However, following an intense bombardment of the Gaza Strip, where Hamas is based, many have been calling for an end to the fighting.
Protesters began to assemble at the square from midday on Saturday (November 4th), with a heavy police presence surrounding the area to contain the crowd.
As the demonstration began, hundreds of Mancunians joined in chants demanding: "Free Palestine". Many donned Palestinian flags, and signs calling for an end to the bloodshed.
Other chants that were used included: "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free", which has been designated a banned chant by the UK government due to its connotations for the eradication of Jewish people.
Some of the demonstrators we spoke to told us they hoped the marches taking place up and down the UK help people become educated on the conflict. One protester said: "We want to show awareness and letting people see the other side."
"There's so many lives going to be lost through this pointless war. Just let people get on with their lives," another protester said. People - in general - get on with their neighbours, friends and workmates regardless of religion or race. We need stop to the big guys telling us what's happening."
The size of the protest continued to swell, with police officers working with Bee Network workers to control the crowd and let trams passing in the area through. A decision was made to suspend certain lines, closing platforms to minimise disruption.
Following speeches, the demonstration moved through the city, causing more travel disruption throughout the day. Bee Network's Twitter account warned people of major problems travelling through the city.