SEATTLE — Hundreds of people took to the streets of Seattle Saturday in support of the people of Palestine and against attacks on Gaza. Protesters were also calling on the United States to stop supporting Israel.
The rally started at Westlake Center and led to a march through several downtown city blocks. People at the rally said they were marching to make sure their voices were heard, as their concern for the people in Gaza is growing.
“I think it's terrible that they're being told to get in cars and buses and then they bomb the buses,” said a rally participant named Lauren. “It's beyond hatred.”
With the recent Hamas attack on Israel, and Israel's current attacks on Gaza, people are concerned for all civilians killed in the chaos.
“There are victims in Israel and in Gaza, this is horrible,” said Lauren.
With threats of more attacks, and just hours to evacuate, people in Seattle who are longtime supporters of Palestine say it is unfair to the civilians stuck in Gaza.
“Two million people are stuck in Gaza and can't get out,” said Addie Domske, who participated in the rally. “So, the idea that they will have an opportunity is ridiculous because it's a police state that controls their movement.”
With an attack by Israel looming on Gaza, one rally organizer said concern is high, but said it is nothing new.
“We have been concerned for over 75 years during these occupations, it is something that, unfortunately, we are used to,” said Bissan Barghouti, who is from Palestine and helped organize the rally. “So that is why we are out in the streets today.”
Some rally attendees said they hope the attacks will halt and that civilians will stop dying.
“I wish the world would wake up and say, ‘There are better solutions than this,’” said Lauren.