On last Friday of Ramadan holiday many Muslims take part in demonstrations against Israel. Palestinians protest against separation fence in Qalandia, while masses demonstrate against US, Israel in Tehran. Cairo to host ‘million-man rally’ outside Israeli embassy
Elior Levy
Two of the largest cities in the Middle East are hosting mass anti-Israel rallies Friday – the last Friday of the Ramadan holiday. A protest was also held in Qalandiya where some 150 Palestinians demonstrating against the separation fence clashed with IDF soldiers.
In Tehran, thousands demonstrated against Israel and the United States, while Cairo gears for the „million-man protest” calling for the Israeli ambassador’s expulsion.
In Qalandiya, Palestinians hurled stones and bottles at the checkpoint. Soldiers responded with tear gas and shock grenades to disperse the protesters. The IDF later closed the checkpoint. An additional rally is being held in Bethlehem.
Protest in Qalandiya (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg)
The Palestinians are protesting under the banner „The olive revolution” and are aiming to cross the separation fence into Jerusalem. The weekly protests in Bilin, Naalin and Nabi Saleh were canceled, to increase the number of participants in the Qalandiya rally.
Meanwhile, Egypt gears for a mass rally to be held outside the Israeli embassy in Cairo following Friday prayers. It is estimated several thousands will take part in the rally, which is being dubbed „the million-man” protest. Hundreds are already gathered in the area.
Palestinians demonstrate against separation fence (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg)
Security around the embassy has been boosted ahead of the protest.
The Muslim Brotherhood announced it will take part in the rally. Egyptian newspaper Al-Youm Al-Sabe’a reported that several political movements are opposed to the demonstration.
In Iran, President Mahmoud Ahamdinejad led a protest against the US and Israel. Iranian state TV said that authorities are expecting one million people to express support of the Palestinians.
Angry masses in Tehran (Photo: AFP)
Anti-Israel rallies were also held in Thailand, outside the Israeli embassy in Bangkok, as well as in Indonesia.
Roee Nahmias and Yair Altman contributed to this report
