Palestinian Protests on 'Nakba Day' Leave 10 Injured

Reports indicate that protests and demonstrations by thousands of Palestinians were held on 'Nakba Day' on Friday, May 14, resulting in at least 10 injuries during clashes between protesters and Israeli soldiers. 'Nakba Day' marks the anniversary of Israel's independence, which Palestinians view as a catastrophe for their nation. This year coincides with the 67th anniversary of 'Nakba Day'; Israel declared its independence in the spring of 1948. According to the Palestinian Authority's planning, a mourning march was held for 67 seconds in cities across the West Bank. Additionally, thousands of Palestinians, mostly youth and teenagers, emphasized their continued efforts for Palestinian independence during demonstrations and marches across various locations in the West Bank. Palestinian and Israeli media reported that these marches turned violent, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators, with at least ten reported injured. Palestinians living in Gaza also chose border areas near southern Israel to hold protests on this anniversary. In refugee camps in other countries, Palestinians displayed keys during gatherings as a symbol of hope for returning to the land from which their ancestors were displaced. Palestinians assert that Israel's independence led to the expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their homeland. According to Palestinian media, Mahmoud Abbas, the leader of the Palestinian Authority, condemned Israel for its ongoing settlement activities and continued occupation in remarks made on the anniversary of 'Nakba Day.' Abbas added that most countries and international organizations have recognized the establishment of an independent state for Palestinians. The Palestinian Authority leader stated that all of Israel's 'plots' to 'destroy the Palestinian cause' have failed and that Palestinian independence is being realized. Mahmoud Abbas made these remarks during a trip to Italy, ahead of a meeting with Pope Francis, the leader of Catholics worldwide. Ahead of the Palestinian leader's visit to the Vatican, the Vatican announced on Wednesday that it recognizes the state of Palestine; this declaration was met with deep satisfaction from Palestinians and anger from the Israeli government. Ahmed Bahar, head of the Palestinian Legislative Council, also held Britain responsible for the 'Nakba' and called for an apology from the country. Bahar referred to the period when Britain held the mandate over Palestinian territories, and Jewish leaders declared Israel's independence in the final hours of British rule. Concurrently, on the anniversary of 'Nakba Day,' Gaza media reported that more than sixty Palestinians were injured in an explosion that occurred on Thursday night in the strip. According to these reports, the explosion took place at a Hamas militant base in 'Beit Lahia' in northern Gaza. Hamas-affiliated sources stated that the 'large' explosion was caused by a rocket leftover from last summer's war between the Israeli army and Palestinian militants. Hamas's military wing stated that its 'experts' were trying to 'neutralize' the rocket when it suddenly exploded. The Israeli army has yet to respond to this claim.