12 Jan 2024 | 05:45 AM UTC
US, Canada: Pro-Houthi demonstrations likely to occur alongside Pro-Palestinian protests in cities throughout North America until at least mid-January /update 24
Pro-Houthi activists likely to join Pro-Palestinian protests across US and Canada through at least mid-January. Disruptions likely.
Further rallies by pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli activists are likely across the US and Canada through at least mid-January in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Activists supporting Yemen's Houthi movement may stage protests alongside pro-Palestinian demonstrations following the US and UK's Jan. 11-12 airstrikes against more than a dozen Houthi-controlled targets in Yemen. The US says that the strikes were in response to multiple Houthi attacks against commercial shipping in the Red Sea since the latest Israel-Hamas war began.
Demonstration organizers have announced the following gatherings in support of Palestinians:
US
Sacramento, California: California State Capital, 13:00 Jan. 13
Seattle, Washington: Henry M. Jackson Federal Building, 915 2nd Ave, 16:00 Jan. 12
Washington, DC.: National Mall, 13:00 Jan. 13
Most demonstrations that materialize will probably draw several hundred attendees, and participation in the thousands or tens of thousands is likely in some major cities on 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 likely 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 are possible 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.
Exercise caution near any protests that materialize. Heed instructions from authorities. Plan accordingly for localized road travel delays. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
