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Chicago demonstrators demand end to fighting in Gaza

protesters
Marchers express support for Palestinians Wednesday evening on the western edge of The Loop.
Carolina Garibay

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Hundreds of demonstrators sympathetic to Palestinians in Gaza rallied in downtown Chicago Wednesday evening to demand an end to the Israel-Hamas war.

"Over 4,000 Palestinians have been killed in less than two weeks," said Lara Haddadin of the US Palestinian Community Network. "Although many are saying the West is turning a blind eye to Israel's violence, we are here to say that is not true."


After a moment of silence for 6-year-old Wadea Al Fayoume – a Muslim boy murdered in an alleged hate crime in Plainfield over the weekend -- organizers turned their attention to politicians and demanded immediate action.

"It is the duty of our congresspeople and the Biden Administration to demand that Israel stop its bombing immediately and for humanitarian aid now," said Muhammad Sankari of the US Palestinian Community Network, who helped organize the rally.

"Everyone here has family, friends, neighbors and loved ones who have been affected," he said.

The large demonstration in Chicago came as President Biden traveled to Tel Aviv to express support for Israel while stressing the need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. A hospital in Gaza was bombed Tuesday, reportedly killing hundreds; Israel blamed the Islamic Jihad.

Biden planned to address U.S. residents Thursday about the escalating situation.

The war was sparked Oct. 7 when Hamas militants invaded southern Israel, killing more than 1,400 civilians and kidnapping dozens. Israel responded by bombing Gaza – officials there say thousands have died -- and preparing for a ground assault.

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