Protestors rally in Vancouver after Israel launches deadly airstrikes on Gaza

Protestors gathered outside the Vancouver Art Gallery Tuesday afternoon to voice their opposition to the actions of the Israeli government.

Israeli Defense Forces launched airstrikes into Gaza Tuesday morning, subsequently ending a 2-month-long ceasefire.

Palestinian community organizer Tamer Aburamadan, with the group Al-Awda Vancouver, says the strike takes things to a whole new level.

“Especially as it comes after the blockade of aid, water, electricity going into Gaza,” said Aburamadan. “And this is all happening during the holy month of Ramadan, when most people in Gaza are fasting.”

Protestors rallied at 5:30 p.m., with the group demanding an immediate end to genocide and violations of international law.

“This rally and march will amplify the voices of those who have been silenced by oppression and violence, and demand accountability from the international community, including the governments enabling Israel’s actions,” said a statement by Al-Awda Vancouver.

In a post to social media today Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly said the focus must be on protecting civilians and that the IDF air strikes and actions of Hamas are fueling further violence and civilian deaths.