The Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town, South Africa, witnessed heightened tensions on Sunday as pro-Palestine protesters and pro-Israel Christian organisations convened for separate demonstrations.
Pro-Israel clash with Pro-Palestine protesters at Sea Point Promenade
Reports indicate that pro-Palestine protesters assembled around noon in anticipation of the pro-Israel march scheduled for 14:30 by various Christian groups.
Security forces, including police equipped with tear gas and water cannons, were deployed to manage the situation and disperse the gathering of pro-Palestine protesters.
Despite efforts to maintain order, clashes occurred, and a heavy police presence remains in the area. These developments have led to concerns about potential localised transport disruptions.
The pro-Israel event, organised by groups such as Concerned Clergy Western Cape, South African Friends of Israel, International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Bridges for Peace, and the ACDP, was described as a peaceful ‘prayer and proclamation for Israel and South Africa’ protest.
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From what we understand, the City of Cape Town had previously denied a second application for a pro-Palestine protest planned for the same afternoon, citing the timing of the application.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), though not one of the initial applicants, had expressed intentions to join the protest.
The situation remains tense, with further clashes between the two groups and potential confrontations with security forces remaining a possibility, especially if orders to disperse are ignored or if the gatherings become overly disruptive.
Here are some of the videos showing the violence that broke out at the Sea Point Promenade on Sunday:
