Protests have unfolded in Dublin, Belfast, and across major cities in the United States, including San Francisco, calling for a permanent ceasefire in the conflict-ridden Gaza. Activists, notably from Amnesty International, have gathered outside US diplomatic offices to demand President Joe Biden’s intervention to halt the atrocities happening in Gaza. These protests come amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has seen over 31,000 Palestinians killed and 80% of the population displaced.

In Ireland, the demonstrations aimed to leverage the presence of Irish premier Leo Varadkar at the White House for St Patrick’s Day to spotlight the Gaza humanitarian crisis. They called on leaders to use their influence to push for peace in the region.

Similarly, in San Francisco, 78 protesters who obstructed the Bay Bridge during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, attended by President Biden, will evade criminal charges by completing five hours of community service and making restitution payments. Their demonstration was part of a broader plea for the liberation of Palestinian people and mirrored calls for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict from city legislatures such as the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

The global protests emphasize the international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the urgent demand for peace efforts.