Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and temporarily blocked it. Activists called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the cessation of all US military aid to Israel.
Under the slogan “Free Palestine,” demonstrators blocked access and chanted slogans while holding banners reading “Stop arming Israel.” Images shared on social media showed participants obstructing the flow of passengers and blocking traffic near the SFO international terminal.
Demonstration at San Francisco Airport, United States of America, in solidarity with Palestine. pic.twitter.com/veqUPRMMc4
– Dato Pagán Hijo (@DatoPagan) March 13, 2024
The airport authorities confirmed the protest and stated this They diverted passengers to avoid the activity. They recommended travelers use alternatives to get to the international terminal, such as the Kiss and Fly parking lot and the AirTrain.
The escalation of tensions in the Gaza Strip has sparked a wave of demonstrations in various cities across the United States as well as disruptions to President Joe Biden’s campaign events. It is estimated that around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, have lost their lives since Israel’s military offensive began in Gaza.
The war has plunged Gaza into a humanitarian crisis, with more than 31,300 Palestinians killed and 73,000 injured, mainly women and children. The enclave’s infrastructure has been severely damaged, 85 percent of the population has been displaced and there are acute shortages of food, drinking water and medicine.
Israel is accused of genocide by the International Court of Justice, which in a preliminary ruling ordered a halt to acts of genocide and the provision of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. However, Hostilities continue and aid remains insufficient to address the crisis.
The protest at San Francisco International Airport reflects growing support for the Palestinian cause in the United States, which has led Joe Biden to clarify his opinion on the issue.
With information from AFP.
ORP