Gaza protest encampment disbands

Protestors have been camped at the Radcliffe Camera for 63 days

Author: Andrea FoxPublished 9th Jul 2024

The protest camp outside the Oxford Radcliffe camera has disbanded.

The group on University land were protesting the conflict in Gaza, and asking for the university to refuse to invest or associate with Israel.

Oxford Action For Palestine say after 63 days they have decided to close the Gaza solidarity encampment.

But they say they will continue action in other ways.

The group say there were 17 arrests over the two month period. It had been reported Oxford University had said it would go to court to force protesters to leave.

A spokesperson for the University gave this statement:

"The University welcomes the disbanding of the camp outside the Radcliffe Camera. We are now assessing the state of the lawn and what further action is required to clear and restore the site.

"The University has consistently expressed grave concern about the horrific events unfolding in Gaza. As a community we hope for a peaceful end to the conflict, a permanent ceasefire, the urgent delivery of vital medical aid and food, and the safe return of all hostages.

"Senior leaders of the University have been meeting regularly with a range of student and staff groups. We are committed to meeting with members of our community to understand and respond to their concerns, and consider how we can best contribute to rebuilding higher education in Gaza."

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