07 May 2024 | 12:49 PM UTC
MENA: Al-Nakba Day rallies likely regionwide, May 15
Rallies likely across the Middle East and North Africa to mark Al-Nakba Day May 15. Avoid all demonstrations.
Large rallies and demonstrations marking the 76th anniversary of Al-Nakba Day are likely throughout the Middle East and North Africa on May 15. Al-Nakba Day commemorates the displacement of Palestinian Arabs during the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. These rallies - designed to show solidarity with Palestinians - will likely have an anti-Western and anti-Israeli tone. Given the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, rallies and demonstrations will likely be more disruptive this year. Violence, including clashes with security forces, cannot be ruled out.
The largest rallies typically occur in Palestinian communities in Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, particularly at or near Palestinian refugee camps, UN offices, Israeli representative offices, and main squares. Disruptive protests are also more likely in Palestinian areas in Israel and the West Bank. Smaller rallies are likely in other major population centers throughout the region.
Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Exercise caution around major public squares, sites associated with Palestinian nationalism, and areas with large numbers of Palestinian refugees. In the case of large-scale protests, allow extra time for travel through May 16. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for authorities to remove them. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location. Heed the advice of authorities, including officers at security checkpoints. Plan accordingly for potential disruptions to ground travel, especially in capital cities.
