gelatik
20.05.02, 18:10
Tens of thousands of people joined a rally in London demanding an end to
Israel's military actions in the West Bank.
Organisers estimated 50,000 people marched through the centre of the capital,
calling for sanctions to be imposed on Ariel Sharon's government.
In the latest in a series of demonstrations over the continuing Middle East
conflict, activists demanded an end to what they see as an aggressive
occupation by Israel.
A mix of students, trade unionists and seasoned campaigners heard calls for war
crimes charges to be brought against those who had organised military actions
in the Jenin refugee camp.
Organisers said they were surprised and very pleased about the turnout which
benefited from a break in the earlier bad weather.
Crowds marched from Hyde Park, through the streets of central London carrying
placards and waving flags before gathering in Trafalgar Square to hear speeches
which demanded more action from the international community.
As well as expressing support for refugees and those who had lost their homes,
marchers called for sanctions to be put in place until Israel agreed to a
complete withdrawal from Palestinian territory.
Naomi Wayne, of Jews for Justice for Palestinians, said: "We wanted to show
solidarity with the Palestinians.
"We want to see Israeli to withdraw to the 1967 borders, from the occupied
territories.
"We want Israel to sit down and negotiate with the Palestinians so they can
have their own state."
She added: "We want Israel to have a secure future, but this must not be at the
expense of the Palestinians.
