In a powerful display of solidarity, Miguel Díaz-Canel, President of Cuba, led thousands of people in a march along Havana’s iconic boardwalk, expressing support for the Palestinian people and calling for an end to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The demonstration, which covered a distance of 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and passed in front of the US Embassy, brought together diverse participants, including top Cuban leaders like Prime Minister Manuel Marrero and Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez.
The Symbolic Unity
President Díaz-Canel, adorned with a black-and-white Palestinian keffiyeh scarf, symbolizing unity with the Palestinian cause, was joined by Palestinian medical students who were in Cuba as part of a cooperation program.
The march aimed to voice opposition to the ongoing violence and advocate for a ceasefire, with many participants carrying signs that read Free Palestine and displaying images depicting the impact of the conflict on civilians, particularly children.
Yanquiel Cardoso, a physical culture specialist who participated in the march, stated, “Today we are supporting the Palestinian people, supporting all those people who feel the pain of having lost a family member, a loved one due to this massacre. We are asking for a ceasefire… and for Palestine to be free.”
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President of Cuba and Thousands March in Havana
The demonstration holds significant importance for those involved, fostering a sense of global solidarity and emphasizing that Palestine is not alone. Sami Sabala, a 26-year-old Palestinian medical student in Havana, expressed, “This march means a lot to us. It raises feelings… And it makes people feel that Palestine is not alone.”
The war between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction.
Hamas militants entered southern Israel, leading to a conflict that has claimed numerous lives and caused extensive damage in Gaza.
The Cuban leadership’s participation in this solidarity march marks the second instance of their support for Palestine, following last week’s projection of the Palestinian flag on the monument to José Martí, a prominent figure in Cuban history.
