Pro-Palestine Supporters Gather To Protest Violence In Middle East

Israel and Hamas agreed on a cease-fire after more than a week of the worst fighting the region has seen since 2014.

Many pro-Palestinians came out Saturday to express their opinions about the violence in the Middle East and the change they want to see happen.

Related Story: Local Jewish Leaders React To Worst Violence Between Israel And Hamas In 7 Years

“Pro-Palestine doesn’t mean we are anti-Jew,” protest organizer Safa Elsoueissi said.

Elsoueissi helped organize the peaceful protest that took place at the intersection of 71st Street and Memorial. She and hundreds of others said that the cease-fire late Thursday wasn’t enough. The issue is much deeper.

“It was the Arab-Israel War. Palestinians have a right to return to their land,” Elsoueissi said. “It’s not a political issue. This is not about being part of Hamas, part of Muslims, Christians, or a Jew. This is a humanitarian crisis.”

Over 200 Palestinians and 12 Israelis were killed during the 11-day conflict.

Protesters are calling on the United States government to stop funding Israel and instead use that money to provide healthcare and education to the Palestinians in Gaza.

Tulsa resident Erika Stone came out to show her support and hopes there are no more future conflicts. 

“As a Jew, Israel is a land I feel very strongly about,” Stone said. “The land issue has been going on for a long time, but the increase in violence over the last few weeks has really caused a lot of concern. I hope there is an end to the killing, and I believe peace is possible. I think it’s going to take a lot of compromises.”

“We are not antisemitic,” Elsoueissi said. “We are anti-Zionism. We have a lot of respect for our Jewish community.”

The Jewish Federation of Tulsa responded to the conflict in the Gaza Strip last week. The organization said it is hoping for peace on both sides.

Elsoueissi said she and her supporters will continue their fight until change happens.