A SIGNIFICANT demonstration is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Haverfordwest, where protesters will gather to demand the UK government cease its support for what they describe as Israel’s “genocide on Gaza”. The protest, organized by Stop The War Pembrokeshire and Solidarity with Palestine Pembrokeshire, is part of a series of nationwide rallies.

The demonstration will commence at 2 pm on the Old Bridge, proceeding through Bridge Street and culminating at local MP Stephen Crabb’s Constituency office on Upper Market Street for speeches.

These rallies are a continuation of numerous demonstrations across the UK since the onset of the Gaza conflict, with national protests in London attracting up to one million participants.

Escalating Violence in Gaza: A Humanitarian Crisis

The organisers expressed urgency in joining voices against “Israel’s unfolding war crimes against Palestine,” highlighting the rising death toll and destruction in Gaza since October 7. Reports indicate over 18,000 Palestinians, including 20,000 children, have been killed, and 50,000 injured. The UN Relief and Workers Agency reports nearly 1.9 million Palestinians displaced, with over 7,729 children, 5,133 women, and 296 health workers among the dead. Additionally, 132 UN staff members have been killed in the conflict.

The situation in Gaza is described as dire, with widespread starvation, medical and sanitary supply shortages, and targeted attacks on journalists and their families. Recent weeks have also seen 272 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the occupied West Bank.

Protesters’ Demands and Global Response

The protest aims to pressure UK parliamentarians and the government to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and urge Israel to lift the siege depriving Gaza’s people of essential resources.

Adam Johannes, a spokesperson for the Stop the War Coalition in Wales, emphasized the right of Palestinians to live freely, unburdened by military occupation and exile. According to a YouGov poll, while 76% of the public supports an immediate ceasefire, the majority of MPs oppose this call.

Afia Ahmed, a protester, condemned the global silence on the Gaza situation, demanding accountability and an end to the Israeli occupation.

Nine-year-old Aklimah Ahmed’s emotional plea highlighted the disproportionate impact on children, questioning the justification of such violence.

Regular vigils have been organized in Haverfordwest every Friday at 7.00 pm, with calls for a ceasefire remaining unheeded.

For further information on the upcoming demonstration, interested parties can refer to the event’s Facebook page or contact Patrick Connellan at 07973378394 for media inquiries.