US, Canada: Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrations likely to continue in multiple cities through at least late December /update 20

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

US

• San Francisco, Calif.: Consulate of Israel, 12:00 Dec. 22

• Columbus, Ohio: Bicentennial Park, 15:00 Dec. 22

• Oakland, Calif.: Lake Merritt Amphitheater, 17:00 Dec. 22

• Boston, Mass.: Park Street Station, 13:00 Dec. 23

• Baltimore, Maryland: McKeldin Plaza, 14:00 Dec. 23

• Portland, Ore.: Pioneer Square, 14:00 Dec. 23

• Philadelphia, Penn.: City Hall, 14:00 Dec. 23

• Los Angeles, Calif.: La Cienaga Park, 15:00 Dec. 23

• Austin, Texas: Austin City Hall, 16:30 Dec. 23

• New York, N.Y.: Union Square Holiday Market, 14:00 Dec. 24

• Sacramento, Calif.: State Capitol, 14:00 Dec. 25

Canada

• Vancouver, B.C.: Grandview Park, 17:30 Dec. 22

• Duncan, B.C.: TransCanada Highway South End, Overpass in Duncan, 11:00 Dec. 23

• Toronto, Ont.: Grange Park, 18:00 Dec. 22; Yonge-Dundas Square, 13:00 Dec. 23

• Winnipeg, Man.: Polo Parking Shopping Centre, 13:00 Dec. 23

• Montral, Que.: Parc Avenue, 14:00 Dec. 23

• Halifax, N.S.: Victoria Park, 14:00 Dec. 23

• Ottawa, Ont.: Canada Tribute to Human Rights, 15:00 Dec. 23

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. Counter protests 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 also been occasional reports of other forms of confrontational behavior, including harassment, vandalism, and the removal of flags or posters placed by opposing groups; similar incidents cannot be ruled out during future demonstrations. Additionally, some schools and religious centers may close or limit their hours of operation. Localized security-related transport and business disruptions are likely.