Dueling rallies held in Brooklyn in support of Palestinians, Israelis

NEW YORK — Dueling rallies were held in support of Palestinians and Israelis outside Brooklyn College on Thursday. 

The protests took place outside the school grounds and were independent of any school affiliation.

Earlier in the day, Chopper 2 had been present at the scene.

People who say they are pro-Palestine and those who say they are pro-Israel faced off outside the gates of the school.

In a statement on Monday, Chancellor Felix V. Matos of City University of New York expressed disapproval of internal organizations that endorse or host rallies in support of Hamas’ cowardly actions.

An alumni group’s message was displayed on an electronic sign attached to a passing truck.

One protester emphasized that the purpose of this rally is to stand for the freedom of Palestine. It is important to clarify that this is by no means a rally in support of Hamas.

Another person asserted, “I want to make it abundantly clear that I am not endorsing or supporting Hamas. We must acknowledge and hold accountable those responsible for these abhorrent acts.”

Security has been stepped up on campus in the form of metal barricades and NYPD officers kept the crowd under control and also allowing for other students to pass through.

The school announced that students who elected not to attend campus on Thursday would face no consequences.

Several New York City Council members were also in attendance.

Councilwoman Inna Vernikov expressed her willingness to discuss the alleged occupation in Palestine at a later time. However, she strongly condemned the act of protesting amidst a massacre, deeming it utterly abhorrent.

The two individuals held signs saying, “We empathize with your pain. Are you able to empathize with ours?”

Yitzchak Friedman expressed that our main message is to unite and collectively mourn the innocent civilians who were tragically murdered.

In:
• Brooklyn
• Hamas
• Israel
• Gaza Strip