Ramallah: Thousands of Palestinians commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Nakba of Palestine, highlighting the ongoing struggle against forced displacement and the defense of national rights amidst continuous challenges faced by refugees and UNRWA.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the anniversary comes at a time of significant hardship for the Gaza Strip, which has been under Israeli occupation aggression for 583 days. This situation mirrors the historical bloodshed and displacement during the Nakba, with air raid sirens sounding for 77 seconds in Palestinian cities as a symbolic reminder. Hundreds observed a moment of silence to reflect on the enduring impact of the Nakba.
The West Bank continues to experience violence, with frequent raids and acts of aggression against Palestinian communities. Tulkarm and Jenin refugee camps have been notably affected, with many residents displaced, and significant destruction reported.
In a demonstration of solidarity, thousands participated in a central festival that commenced at Yasser Arafat's tomb and proceeded to Al-Manara Square. Attendees included notable figures from the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Fatah Movement, as well as representatives from various national and civil organizations.
Mahmoud Al-Aloul, speaking on behalf of President Mahmoud Abbas, addressed the gathering, underscoring the historical injustices of the Nakba and the ongoing resistance against occupation. He emphasized the continued resilience of the Palestinian people, despite the severe conditions in Gaza and the West Bank, and condemned the actions against civilians and holy sites.
The commemoration serves as both a remembrance of past atrocities and a call for continued resistance against current and future challenges faced by the Palestinian people.