US, Canada: Pro-Palestinian demonstrations scheduled in several cities July 19-24

Further rallies by pro-Palestinian activists are scheduled in several cities across the US and Canada from July 19 to 24 in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The likely largest demonstration is scheduled on Capitol Hill, Washington, DC, on July 24, when activists plan to gather to protest Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the US Congress for a speech. Activists plan to gather starting at 11:00 a.m.

Other confirmed demonstrations in the coming days are the following:

US

• Cleveland, Ohio: Baltic Children's Park, 17:30 July 19

• Brooklyn, New York, N.Y.: Leif Ericson Park, 19:30 July 20

Canada

• Montreal, Quebec: US Consulate, 14:00 July 20

• Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Tribute to Human Rights, 14:00 July 20

Other than the protest in Washington, DC, most demonstrations that materialize will probably draw several hundred attendees, and participation in the thousands is possible in some major cities.

Authorities will likely deploy an increased security presence near any gatherings. Although most demonstrations will likely remain peaceful, clashes between groups of rival activists have occurred. 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. Additionally, some schools and religious centers may close or limit their hours of operation. Localized security-related transport and business disruptions cannot be ruled out.