LONDON, (PIC)
In a powerful display of solidarity, hundreds of thousands gathered in London for the 21st National Demonstration Against Genocide in Gaza and Lebanon, demanding an end to violence and justice for the Palestinian people. The march, held on the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration on Saturday, stretched from the UK government headquarters to the US Embassy, sending a clear message to global leaders about the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Organized by a coalition of advocacy groups, including the Palestinian Forum in Britain (PFB), the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), the Stop the War Coalition (STW), Friends of Al-Aqsa (FOA), and the Muslim Association of Britain (MAB), the event began with a symbolic tribute to the martyrs of Gaza and Lebanon. Protesters waved flags, held signs, and chanted slogans as they marched together in support of Palestinian rights and an immediate ceasefire.
A diverse lineup of speakers addressed the crowd, underscoring the widespread support for the Palestinian cause. Key figures included:
- Jo Grady, General Secretary of the University and College Union (UCU), who represented over 150,000 education workers and spoke about the responsibility of academic institutions to stand against oppression.
- Apsana Begum, MP for Poplar and Limehouse, who called for political accountability from the UK regarding arms exports to the occupying forces.
- Richard Burgon, MP for Leeds East, highlighted the UK’s complicity in the crisis and the urgent need for a shift in foreign policy.
- Jeremy Corbyn, Independent MP for Islington North and lifelong anti-Apartheid activist, condemned the ongoing violence and urged an end to the occupation.
Maysara Ibrahim, representing the Palestinian Forum in Britain, delivered one of the most impactful speeches of the day, reflecting on personal tragedy and the unimaginable toll on Gaza’s population. “I have run out of words, as we repeat the same agony and the same pain, while the darkness before us threatens the very existence of our values, our principles, and what remains of our humanity,” he said. “Yet seeing you all today brings hope. We must not stop until we see Palestine free. We will not bow, we will not surrender, and we will continue our fight until our land is free, until Palestine is free from the river to the sea.”
This rallying call resonated deeply with the crowd, who responded with chants of “Free Palestine” and “Stop Arming Israel.” Ibrahim’s words highlighted both the heartbreak and resilience of Palestinians, many of whom have lost family members and loved ones.
Speakers from various solidarity movements also shared appeals for justice, peace, and human dignity. Emilie Stevenson, representing Na’amod, a Jewish movement opposing their community’s support for occupation, emphasized the importance of Jewish solidarity with Palestinians, while Marion Roberts represented the Jewish bloc that has consistently supported national demonstrations against occupation.
Sarah Agha, a British Palestinian actor, and Hamza Stitam, a British Palestinian from Gaza, shared emotional stories of loss and resilience. The White Kite Collective, represented by Motaz Malhees and Taghrid Choucair Vizoso, spoke about their grassroots efforts to bear witness and amplify Palestinian voices amidst ongoing violence.
In his closing remarks, Ben Jamal, Director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and called on the UK government to take concrete action. “We will not stop until justice prevails,” he declared. “The world is watching, and history will remember those who stood up for human rights and those who turned a blind eye.”
This historic march not only showcased the growing momentum behind the Palestinian cause but also demonstrated a united demand for an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza and Lebanon. Organizers and participants vowed to continue their efforts until peace and justice are secured for the Palestinian people.
