Syria Today | Protests staged against Israeli attack on freedom flotilla

Protests staged against Israeli attack on freedom flotilla

Protests were held throughout Damascus on May 31 in response to the deadly Israeli attack on a flotilla of pro-Palestinian activists attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Protesters staged rallies in the Damascus suburb of Yarmouk, as well as in front of the UNDP office in Mezzeh and other parts of the city. About 150 people gathered in downtown Damascus near the statue of Saladin, waving the flags of political parties.

"All this convoy was carrying was food, building materials and medical supplies," Samir, a Palestinian protester in his early forties, said. "What problem do the Israelis have with wheelchairs for the Palestinians?"

Rami, a 23-year-old student at the faculty of fine arts at the University of Damascus, said he would protest all day. He joined the demonstration outside the UNDP offices in the morning and planned to move on to Yarmouk that night. His feelings reflected those of the crowd: angry and powerless.

"What happened today will not have any consequences for Israel," he said.

At least 9 activists were killed and 45 injured in the Israeli attack which occurred in international waters early in the morning of May 31. Four Syrians were part of the freedom flotila.