JERUSALEM
Members of the Neturei Karta Jewish religious group staged a protest in East Jerusalem on Sunday, condemning the ongoing deadly Israeli onslaught against the besieged Gaza Strip.
They gathered at Damascus Gate leading to the Old City of Jerusalem carrying pro-Palestinian banners.
"The Jewish people send condolences to the families of those killed in Gaza," read one sign.
"The Zionist army does not represent the Jews and Judaism," said another.
At least 1031 Palestinians have been killed and more than 6000 injured in relentless Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip since July 7.
Israel claims that the military offensive aims at halting rocket fire from the Palestinian territory, which has been reeling under a crippling Israeli blockade since 2006.
According to official Israeli figures, 46 Israelis – 43 soldiers and three civilians – have been killed since hostilities began.
The Jewish protesters, who also carried Palestinian flags and waved victory signs, said the end of Zionism means peace and security.
"Palestine belongs to the Palestinians," read one banner.
Israeli police arrested the protesters while Palestinians chanted slogans to support the Neturei Karta members.
Neturei Karta opposes the establishment and existence of Israel, arguing that the entire concept of a sovereign Jewish state is contrary to Judaism.
Israel's operation "Protective Edge" is the self-proclaimed Jewish state's third major offensive against the densely populated Gaza Strip - home to 1.8 million Palestinians - within the last six years.
By Turgut Alp Boyraz
www.aa.com.tr/en
