Thousands of students have occupied lecture theatres, Around the UK, offices and other buildings at more than 20 universities in sit-down protests against the attack on the Gaza Strip especially the educational institutions.
Young students, some of whom who have never been involved in political activism, have been moved in large numbers to express the outrage that British people feel about the mass carnage in Gaza.
“I support the student protesters and their admirable stand against the slaughter of civilians in Gaza. The key to peace with justice, and to security for all sides in the conflict, is Israel’s withdrawal to its pre-1967 borders and the creation of a viable, independent and sovereign Palestinian state. In reciprocation, armed Palestinian groups should cease their attacks on Israelis.
Oxford University should disinvest from BAE and other companies that supply arms to Israel’s war machine, and should fund scholarships for Palestinian students, as a contribution to the educational empowerment of those adversely affected by the conflict.” Said Peter Tatchell, human rights campaigner and Green Party parliamentary candidate for Oxford East
Students in Manchester University have occupied a university building, putting forth a list of demands to the university. In their list of demands, they confirmed on issuing a formal statement condemning Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, acknowledging particularly the effects on educational institutions such as the bombing of the Gaza Islamic University and expressing concern about war crimes allegations in addition to sending public message of solidarity to the Islamic University in Gaza, whose campus has been virtually destroyed, and publish it on the university website and distribute it to the university wide e-mail addresses.
Dr. Kamalain Shaath, IUG president, expressed his sincere thanks and deep appreciation for all conscious efforts, endeavours and demands to support the right to education, justice and freedom in Palestine.
“With great respect and admiration, we have been following all activities taking place in 19 British universities. Your brave campaign has strengthened both our hope and will that we are not alone in this just battle against unprecedented blatant injustices and flagrant violation of human in Palestine.” Dr. Sha’ath write to the British supporters to IUG.
