US, Canada: Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrations likely to continue in multiple cities into at least mid-December /update 17

Further rallies by pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli activists are likely across the US and Canada into at least mid-December in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Organizers have announced the following gatherings in support of Palestinians:

US

• Madison, Wisconsin: Intersection of Monroe Street and West Lawn Avenue, 16:30 Dec. 7

• Atlanta, Georgia: Consulate General of Israel, 08:00 Dec. 8; Center for Civil and Human Rights, 13:00 Dec. 10

• Miami Beach, Florida: Miami Beach Convention Center, 14:00 Dec. 8

• Providence, Rhode Island: Rhode Island State House, 14:00 Dec. 8

• New York, New York: Foley Square, City Hall, Wall Street, and Washington Square Park, starting at 15:00 Dec. 8; Brooklyn Museum, 13:00 Dec. 9

• Los Angeles, California: Holmby Park, 15:30 Dec. 8

• Houston, Texas: Consulate General of Israel, 16:00 Dec. 8

• Orlando, Fla.: City Hall, 16:00 Dec. 8

• Boston, Massachusetts: Marina Park, 17:30 Dec. 8

• Nashville, Tennessee: Centennial Park, 13:00 Dec. 9

• Charlotte, North Carolina: Romare Bearden Park, 14:00 Dec. 9

• Columbia, South Carolina: South Carolina State House, 14:00 Dec. 9

• Seattle, Washington: Westlake Park, 14:00 Dec. 9

Canada

• Montreal, Quebec: City Hall, 17:00 Dec. 7; Place des Arts, 14:00 Dec. 9

• Vancouver, British Columbia: Vancouver Art Gallery, 16:00 Dec. 9

• Toronto, Ontario: US Consulate General and Yonge-Dundas Square, 13:00 Dec. 9

Most demonstrations that materialize will probably draw several hundred attendees, with participation in the thousands or tens of thousands likely in some major cities during weekends. Such events may occur near Israeli or Palestinian diplomatic offices, synagogues, mosques, identifiably Jewish or Palestinian business premises, public squares, universities, and major government buildings. Recent protests have also targeted ports and industries. Counterprotests could occur in some locations.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased security presence near any related gatherings. Clashes between groups of rival activists have occurred, especially on university campuses and during large protests in city centers, and further clashes are possible. There have been occasional reports of other forms of confrontational behavior, including harassment, vandalism, and the removal of flags or posters placed by opposing groups. Additionally, some schools and religious centers may close or limit their hours of operation. Localized security-related transport and business disruptions are likely.