Hundreds of people protested outside the Federal Building on State Street in Rochester Wednesday afternoon in support of Palestinians injured during the recent increase in violence in the Middle East.
One of the protesters, Basem Ashkar, called on U.S. politicians to stop supporting Israel.
Basem Ashkar speaks outside the Rochester Federal Building during a protest Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/DEtlF5JDxo
— Max Schulte (@maxrocphoto) May 12, 2021
“Israel must stop killing Palestinian people and their children and stop destroying their houses. Enough is enough,” Ashkar said.
On Twitter, Congressman Joe Morelle condemned attacks by the Palestinian organization, Hamas.
I strongly condemn the attacks by Hamas against innocent civilians. This violence must end, which is why I continue to support de-escalation efforts and will work to achieve lasting peace, safety, and prosperity for both Israel and Palestine.
— Joe Morelle (@RepJoeMorelle) May 12, 2021
Palestinian officials say at least 56 Palestinians have died in Gaza and more than 300 have been wounded.
In Israel, authorities say at least six people have been killed, and more than 1,000 rockets have been fired by militants in Gaza at Israel over the last couple of days.
