Gatherings of people across north and central Gaza on Wednesday expressed gratitude to students on US college campuses who have been protesting the war in Gaza. In Deir al-Balah, in front of Al Aqsa Martyrs hospital, doctors, nurses, and medical staff held signs with messages that included “United against genocide,” “The killing of children must stop,” and “Keep on fighting for justice.”
Dr. Saad Abu Sharban expressed his joy at seeing images of protesters in other countries, highlighting the global awareness of the situation in Gaza. Palestinians in Gaza have been showing support for the US protesters for several days, with children in refugee camps seen holding signs thanking American universities for their solidarity.
Nadia Al-Dibs, a mother in Deir al-Balah, expressed her gratitude to the “brave students” at American universities for their support and calls for a ceasefire. She contrasted the lack of support from Arab populations with the solidarity shown by American students.
The public appreciation from people in Gaza comes amid controversy in the US over the campus demonstrations, with critics alleging instances of anti-semitism. Israel has accused the protests of being influenced by “outside agitators.” Israel’s UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan denounced the university demonstrations, calling for severe action against students, professors, and university presidents.
Several colleges have taken a stricter stance by involving law enforcement to clear their campuses, a move praised by former US President Donald Trump. Shiraz University in Iran has offered scholarships to students from US and European universities facing expulsion over the protests.
