28 Jan 2020 | 04:53 PM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Palestinians protest in Gaza January 28 /update 1
Palestinians protest in the Gaza Strip ahead of release of Israeli-Palestinian peace plan January 28; further protests planned January 29 and 31
Event
Thousands of Palestinians gathered in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, January 28, to protest US President Donald Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, which will be released at 17:00 (GMT time) on Tuesday. Israeli troops were reportedly sent to reinforce the Jordan Valley and the West Bank, between Ramallah and Beit El, on Tuesday in anticipation of further protests following the release of the plan.
Palestinian authorities have reportedly rejected the deal and warned of "serious consequences" for the region if the plan goes against the "sovereignty or identity" of the Palestinian people. Palestinian Authority officials have called for "Day of Rage" demonstrations on Wednesday, January 29, and Friday, January 31. The Palestinian National and Islamic Forces are reportedly organizing protests on Wednesday morning (local time) in the northern Jordan Valley and marches in the Gaza Strip and West Bank. On Friday, the Palestinian National and Islamic Forces are calling on supporters to gather at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem - likely coinciding with afternoon prayers.
Further protest action is anticipated in major urban areas throughout the Palestinian Territories Wednesday, and Friday. Similar demonstrations, particularly in areas related to US politically-conditioned funding, are also likely in Ramallah, Al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank, Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip on Tuesday to coincide with President Trump's announcement. A heightened security presence and localized transportation and business disruptions are expected near any demonstration. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.
