14 May 2018 | 06:06 PM UTC
South Africa: Demonstration at US Consulate General in Johannesburg May 15
Demonstration May 15 at US Consulate General in Johannesburg against US Embassy opening in Jerusalem (Israel); heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
The Palestine Solidarity Alliance (PSA) will hold a demonstration in solidarity with the Palestinian people on Tuesday, May 15, from 14:00 to 18:00 (local time) in Johannesburg outside the US Consulate General. At least 300 participants are expected. Demonstrators will gather on the Sandton Drive sidewalk directly in front of the consulate as well as at the intersection of Sandton Drive and Rivonia Road. The demonstration is in protest of US policy regarding Israel, including the May 14 move of the US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions near the consulate in Johannesburg is expected.
Context
In December 2017, US President Donald Trump announced that the US would officially recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a departure from the previous US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city, claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. In February, American officials announced that the US would open a temporary embassy location in Jerusalem by mid-May 2018, ahead of the previously anticipated schedule.
Advice
Individuals in Johannesburg are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
