DEMONSTRATORS SHOW SUPPORT FOR GAZA

Dunedin Anti-War Coalition – For Immediate Release

Amidst pouring rain on Saturday January 15th around 150 people gathered in Dunedin's Octagon to show support for the people of Gaza during the latest hostilities from Israel.

Beneath banners calling for an end to the war a diverse group of protesters heard a speech from local Imam Sheikh Gamael, who spoke about the pain and suffering being inflicted on the civilians in Gaza. Also speaking were representatives of the International Socialist Organisation, the NZ Alliance Party, the Workers Party of New Zealand and a member of the local Jewish community. Additionally, Christina Gibb spoke on her time as a member of the Christian Peacemakers team in Palestine. A moment of silence was observed for the 1,155 Palestinians who have died in the conflict so far.

Several local political activists criticised the Israeli aggression, and signatures were taken for a letter addressed to New Zealand Prime Minister John Key and Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray McCully, calling on the Government to sever diplomatic relations with Israel if it did not immediately withdraw its troops from Gaza.

Over $770 was raised from donations for the Christian World Service, whose Palestinian partner has been trying to provide medical aid and supplies to the besieged people of Gaza.

ENDS

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