A silent vigil for the people of Gaza will be held in Carlisle this week.
Organised by the Palestine Solidarity Group Carlisle and District, it will take place on Saturday at 1pm in the city centre.
The group said: “As the lights go out in Gaza, and troops amass on the border, we will take a stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza who will pay the price for Hamas’ violent attacks on innocent Israelis.
“We will call for de-escalation of tensions, a halt to violence, a move towards a just peace.”
The militant group Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007, launched an assault on Israel last Saturday. Hundreds of Israelis and Palestinians have been killed so far and civilians are being held in Gaza as hostages.
The group has asked if people bring banners, they are in line with calls for peace and solidarity and do not cause distress to anyone grieving deaths caused by the Israel-Palestine War.
Although it is a silent event, the group said people will be on hand to discuss any issues anyone wants to raise.
Meanwhile, Cumbria police issued a statement on its Facebook page regarding the war.
It said: “As a constabulary we are watching the developing situation in Israel and Gaza.
“We recognise that there will be many people who are affected.
“We are increasing patrols within our local communities and are engaging with community groups and partners.
“We have zero tolerance for any hate crime. If you have been victim to a hate crime or witnessed a hate crime, please report this to us.”
