MENA: Al-Nakba Day rallies likely regionwide May 15

Event

Large rallies marking the 73rd anniversary of Al-Nakba (Catastrophe) Day are likely throughout the Middle East and North Africa on May 15. Al-Nakba Day commemorates the expulsion of thousands of Palestinians 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. Security incidents are possible, particularly in major cities; 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. Smaller rallies are likely in other major population centers throughout the region.

Advice

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.