MENA: Gatherings related to Israel-Hamas conflict likely regionwide through late October /update 2

Event

Gatherings in response to the conflict between Israel and Gaza-based militant groups are likely across the Middle East and North Africa through late October. Former Hamas leader Khaled Meshal has notably called for demonstrations across the Muslim world on Oct. 13 in support of Palestinians and urged people in nations neighboring Israel to join in the militants' fight against the country.

Related gatherings are most likely to occur in capitals or other major cities. In these areas, mosques, public squares, city centers, Palestinian diplomatic offices, and Israeli embassies or consulates are likely gathering locations. Demonstrators in Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan could also organize rallies near the shared borders with Israel.

Officials in impacted locations will likely deploy security personnel to monitor gatherings. Localized road travel delays are likely near any protest that materializes. Demonstrators could march along roadways.

Context

Hamas, the Gaza-based militant group, launched a surprise land, sea, and air assault against Israel early Oct. 7. Hamas has called the operation “Al-Aqsa Flood.” It is the largest and most coordinated attack against Israel in years. The assault coincided with the Jewish religious holiday Simchat Torah and, perhaps not coincidentally, 50 years and a day after the beginning of the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Allies of Israel, including states with no official relations, such as Saudi Arabia, have condemned the attack, while supporters of Hamas, including Iran and Hizballah, have welcomed it.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Exercise caution near protest sites. Heed the instructions of officials. Plan for localized road travel delays should protests occur.