US, Canada: Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrations likely to continue in several cities into at least late January /update 25

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

US

• San Francisco, California: Civic Center Plaza, 13:00 Jan. 17

• New York, New York: UFT Headquarters, 16:00 Jan. 17; Washington Square Park, 18:00 Jan. 18; J. Hood Wright Park, 12:30 Jan. 20

• Chicago, Illinois: United Center, 08:00 Jan. 18

• Austin, Texas: City Hall, 11:00 Jan. 18; Texas Capitol, 14:00 Jan. 21

• Tucson, Arizona: Federal Building, 17:00 Jan. 18

• Seattle, Washington: Boeing Company, 15:30 Jan. 19

• Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard Square, 11:00 Jan. 20

• Dallas, Texas: Dallas Morning News Building, 13:30 Jan. 21

Canada

• Hamilton, Ontario: Federal Building, 12:00 Jan. 20

• Toronto, Ontario: Intersection of Bay and Front streets, 13:00 Jan. 21

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.