Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Protests and events planned for Nakba Day May 15

Event

Palestinians and civil society groups are expected to hold commemoration events and protests in Israel, West Bank, and the Gaza Strip on Nakba Day on Wednesday, May 15, and the days surrounding it. Thousands of Israelis participated in an annual march to the destroyed village of Khubbayza in Israel on Friday, May 10, to commemorate the exodus of Palestinians in 1948. Nakba Day is officially commemorated on May 15, but specific Palestinian villages typically observe the Nakba at specific times and dates. Protest marches, demonstrations, speeches, and other events are expected in Israel, West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Heightened security measures are likely, including road closures, checkpoints, increased screening at ports of entry, and associated disruptions. 

In Gaza, civil society groups have called for a day-long strike and large demonstrations to commemorate Nakba and protest the Israeli blockade and fishing restrictions. Protests at the Israeli-Gazan border are also likely, particularly on Wednesday and Friday, May 17. Clashes between protesters and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are possible.

Context

Nakba Day is the annual commemoration of the exodus of Palestinians following the creation of Israel and during the 1948 Palestine War. An estimated 750,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled to other countries in this period.

Advice

Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to avoid all public gatherings as a precaution, anticipate heightened security measures and transportation and business disruptions near any protest events, remain vigilant for suspicious behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.