News / college green
Vigil in solidarity with Israel met with disruption
A vigil held in Bristol in solidarity with the people of Israel was met with some disruption.
A man shouted expletives at the group on College Green and then a woman attempted to read the Palestinian death toll, before being escorted away by police.
Dozens of Israel supporters gathered for the event on Sunday afternoon, at the same spot where hundreds of Palestine supporters also gathered the day before.
is needed now More than ever
View this post on Instagram
Photos of murdered Israelis and missing children were placed on the grass along with flowers and candles in the formation of the Star of David.
There was prayer, song and speeches from local Jewish leaders Rabbi Mendy Singer of Chabad of Bristol and Valerie Russell Emmott of Bristol & West Progressive Jewish Congregation.
The vigil was organised by Sapir Mardan, who told Bristol24/7: “I think it’s important to recognise the massacre that’s happened to innocent people.
“We wish peace for all innocent people. The events that happened in Israel caused horrible things to both sides and we just wish it to end and everyone to be safe.”
On the disruption during the event, she added: “I feel sorry for the people who feel like it’s the right time to not respect other people, to mourn, to be sad.”
All photos: Rob Browne; video: Charlie Watts
Read next:
- Vigil held in Bristol in solidarity with the people of Palestine
- Hundreds march through city in support of Palestine
- Vigil held to remember St Paul’s stabbing victim
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
