Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip, demonstrations and gatherings took place this weekend in Tenjin, a bustling area in Fukuoka City. The rallies aimed at calling for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The death toll since October 7 stands at over 1,400 on the Israeli side, including more than 200 foreigners held hostage, while the Gaza Strip has seen 4,651 fatalities, totaling over 6,000 on both sides.
A Belgium-born Jewish businessman living in the city organized a gathering at Kego Park on the night of the 21st. He revealed that a 19-year-old relative serving in the Israeli military died during a large-scale attack by Hamas on October 7. Another demonstration calling for solidarity with the people of Palestine was held on the 22nd, involving about 200 participants, some of whom were of Palestinian origin. Eljamal Osama, an associate professor originally from Gaza and currently in Fukuoka, participated and spoke about losing contact with his family in Gaza after their home was near an attack site. Source: NHK
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