The intensification of Israel’s war on Gaza, Palestine and on Lebanon has killed 40,000+ people, including 10,000+ children. They have been killed by bombs, gunfire, starvation, crushed under rubble and torture.
This is played out in real-time on our TV and social media screens — but so far we have been unable to stop this horrific genocide. It’s easy to feel angry and powerless.
Trump’s previous term as US president paved the way for the current carnage, and his re-election is unlikely to end the war in a just peace. It’s more likely to be a further disaster for the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples.
There are many forms of protest against the genocide, including demonstrations, marches, rallies, gigs, fundraisers, writing to politicians, occupations and direct action against companies who fuel the war.
These companies make blood money — they literally make a killing. These actions can be effective, as we saw during the South African anti-apartheid struggle.
Recently, Barclays Bank have said they will no longer trade with Elbit shares (another arms company complicit in the Gaza genocide). This followed regular protests at Barclays branches, which caused bad publicity and extensive damage to some Barclays buildings.
Perhaps because the protests are effective and threaten capitalist profits, a judge recently gave out long, harsh sentences to five members of Palestine Action Scotland who occupied the Thales factory in Govan in June 2022. More recent protests at the site have been met with a heavy police presence and violence.
The Thales 5 occupied the factory and caused damage to computers and components which would otherwise have been used in Palestine or Lebanon today. Their actions were brave and have helped to slow down the war machine and save lives. They are now paying a heavy price for their sacrifice.
In solidarity, the Republican Socialist Platform has today donated £500 to support the five activists.
Please also support the activists’ online crowdfunder by donating yourself if possible or asking your community group, political party or trade union to donate.