Africa: Gatherings related to Israel-Hamas conflict likely regionwide through late December /update 3

Gatherings in response to the conflict between Israel and Gaza-based armed group Hamas are likely across Africa through late December. Related protests have been reported in Mauritania, Kenya, Senegal, and various cities in Nigeria and South Africa, among other locations. Some protests have turned violent. Clashes opposing police forces and protesters left one participant dead during a pro-Palestinian gathering organized by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) in the northern Nigerian city of Kaduna Sept. 16. In recent weeks, the most frequent reported gatherings occurred in South Africa, specifically Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria, where the potential for clashes between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian activists is elevated.

Gatherings are most likely in capitals or other major cities. In these areas, mosques, public squares, city centers, Palestinian diplomatic offices, Muslim communities, and Israeli embassies or consulates are likely gathering locations.

Officials in impacted locations will likely deploy security personnel to monitor gatherings. Clashes with security forces or between rival activists are possible. Localized road travel delays are likely near any protests that materialize. Demonstrators could march along roadways.