Thousands of Cubans, including President Miguel Diaz-Canel and other communist leaders, gathered in Havana to show support for Palestinians in Gaza. The demonstration featured a large banner reading “Long live free Palestine” and participants wearing keffiyeh scarves as a symbol of solidarity. Michel Marino, a student, spoke out against the “genocidal crusade” by Israel against Palestinians at the event.
Originally planned to mark the first anniversary of Israel’s war on Gaza following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, the march was postponed due to Hurricane Milton. Despite the delay, the event drew attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with Palestinian student Mohammed Suwan highlighting the lack of peace in the region. The West Bank also faces daily aggression, but the international community has been slow to intervene in the crisis.
Cuba’s involvement in the lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice in June further demonstrates its commitment to supporting Palestinians. The lawsuit, filed jointly with South Africa, seeks to hold Israel accountable for its military offensive in Gaza. The solidarity expressed by Cubans in Havana reflects a broader global concern for the rights and well-being of Palestinians, who continue to face violence and oppression in the region.
The presence of Palestinian medical students living in Cuba at the march underscores the personal connections forged between the two communities. Beyond political statements, the event also served as a platform for individuals to express their support for Palestinians in Gaza. As Cuba and other nations join forces to condemn Israel’s actions, the hope is to raise awareness and push for greater accountability in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The march in Havana represents a grassroots effort to advocate for Palestinian sovereignty and freedom amidst ongoing conflict and violence. By coming together to show solidarity with Gaza, Cubans are standing up against the injustices faced by Palestinians. As the international community grapples with finding a resolution to the crisis, events like these serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting those affected by conflict and oppression.
As the march in Havana demonstrates, the voices of ordinary citizens can make a powerful statement in support of human rights and justice. By standing in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, Cuban leaders and individuals are sending a clear message that the world cannot ignore the suffering and violence faced by this community. Through their actions and advocacy, they are working to raise awareness and promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
