George Kelly

More than 1,000 protesters endured the heat wave Sunday in San Francisco to march through the streets in remembrance of a year since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

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More than 1,000 protesters endured the heat wave Sunday in San Francisco to march through the streets in remembrance of a year since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Organizers, who kicked off the rally around midday at 16th and Valencia streets, said their chief demands include an immediate end to the conflict and an arms embargo against Israel.

Organizers, who kicked off the rally around midday at 16th and Valencia streets, said their chief demands include an immediate end to the conflict and an arms embargo against Israel.

Synagogues beef up security for holidays, Oct. 7 anniversary

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They argue that U.S. support for Israel has continued despite domestic budget constraints and opposition among Democratic and independent voters.

They argue that U.S. support for Israel has continued despite domestic budget constraints and opposition among Democratic and independent voters.

The event began with a blue tarp laid across Valencia Street&#8217;s center bike lane to permit prayers before rally hosts led chants for a free Palestine.

The event began with a blue tarp laid across Valencia Street's center bike lane to permit prayers before rally hosts led chants for a free Palestine.

The event began with a blue tarp laid across Valencia Street&#8217;s center bike lane to permit prayers before rally hosts led chants for a free Palestine.

Diane Wang, left, and Ken Knudsen sit with umbrellas at a rally in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0578.jpg?w=2500" alt="People sit and stand on a street, one holding a checkered umbrella, another with a Palestine flag umbrella. Others wear keffiyehs and masks, suggesting a protest." class="wp-image-319235"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Diane Wang, left, and Ken Knudsen sit with umbrellas at the rally.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0578.jpg?w=2500" alt="People sit and stand on a street, one holding a checkered umbrella, another with a Palestine flag umbrella. Others wear keffiyehs and masks, suggesting a protest." class="wp-image-319235"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Diane Wang, left, and Ken Knudsen sit with umbrellas at the rally.</figcaption></figure>

An individual that did not want their name to be used sits on a truck at a rally in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0644.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people gather closely in an urban setting, displaying a colorful flag. They appear focused and engaged, with diverse clothing styles and expressions." class="wp-image-319238"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A protester sits in a truck.</figcaption></figure>

Bill Lo holds a sign at a rally in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0612.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man holds a sign with a sketch labeled &quot;Genocider in Chief&quot; and &quot;Butcher&quot; at a protest. Others nearby hold signs, and a large Palestinian flag is in the background." class="wp-image-319236"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bill Lo holds a sign depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Joe Biden.</figcaption></figure>

&#8220;We are here today to say that we are undeterred and we know that liberation and return is imminent and inevitable,&#8221; one organizer said before calling for a moment of silence. &#8220;We come here in mourning and we come here with pride in our people, in their resistance, and in their sacrifice.&#8221;

"We are here today to say that we are undeterred and we know that liberation and return is imminent and inevitable," one organizer said before calling for a moment of silence. "We come here in mourning and we come here with pride in our people, in their resistance, and in their sacrifice."

&#8220;We are here today to say that we are undeterred and we know that liberation and return is imminent and inevitable,&#8221; one organizer said before calling for a moment of silence. &#8220;We come here in mourning and we come here with pride in our people, in their resistance, and in their sacrifice.&#8221;

Lara Kiswani, executive director of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center, said the past year has been marked by grief for local communities advocating for peace and justice.

Lara Kiswani, executive director of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center, said the past year has been marked by grief for local communities advocating for peace and justice.

After a rendition of the Palestinian national anthem, Kiswani addressed the cheering crowd.

After a rendition of the Palestinian national anthem, Kiswani addressed the cheering crowd.

&#8220;Somewhere, beneath the rubble in Gaza, in the West Bank, and in Lebanon, there are new poppies growing, new stories waiting to be told, and our songs carrying us through,&#8221; she said.

"Somewhere, beneath the rubble in Gaza, in the West Bank, and in Lebanon, there are new poppies growing, new stories waiting to be told, and our songs carrying us through," she said.

&#8220;Somewhere, beneath the rubble in Gaza, in the West Bank, and in Lebanon, there are new poppies growing, new stories waiting to be told, and our songs carrying us through,&#8221; she said.

Individuals hold flags at Dolores Park during a rally in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0884.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of protesters holds flags and signs with messages against U.S.-Israeli actions. Two men stand elevated, waving flags, among palm trees and banners." class="wp-image-319242"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Protesters hold flags at Dolores Park, where the march culminated Sunday afternoon.</figcaption></figure>

A flag is waved at a rally in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0636.jpg?w=2500" alt="A flag featuring a masked figure is attached to a streetlight, with clear skies in the background. Below are traffic signs and a 16th St street sign." class="wp-image-319237"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A flag bearing the image of a Hamas fighter waves over the march.</figcaption></figure>

A truck drives as white smoke is emitted during a march in support of Palestine in San Francisco, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. On October 7, it will be one year since a tragic and devastating conflict erupted in the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a year since Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives. It has also been a year since Israel launched a destructive campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 people and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the area.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240410-gazarally_0752.jpg?w=2500" alt="A white truck carries people holding protest signs and waving flags, with smoke in the air. Decorations include green and red symbols, and “Hands Off Lebanon &amp; Palestine” is visible." class="wp-image-319239"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">White smoke billows from a truck driving through the march.</figcaption></figure>

&#8220;Because the reality, my friends, is there are no more words, so to speak now is humbling and somewhat an impossible task we must all take up,&#8221; she continued. &#8220;It is our duty not only to speak out, it is our responsibility to act for the people of Palestine and for the sake of humanity.&#8221;

"Because the reality, my friends, is there are no more words, so to speak now is humbling and somewhat an impossible task we must all take up," she continued. "It is our duty not only to speak out, it is our responsibility to act for the people of Palestine and for the sake of humanity."

&#8220;Because the reality, my friends, is there are no more words, so to speak now is humbling and somewhat an impossible task we must all take up,&#8221; she continued. &#8220;It is our duty not only to speak out, it is our responsibility to act for the people of Palestine and for the sake of humanity.&#8221;

Kiswani praised protesters for helping to build &#8220;the largest movement for Palestinian freedom in world history.&#8221;

Kiswani praised protesters for helping to build "the largest movement for Palestinian freedom in world history."

Kiswani praised protesters for helping to build &#8220;the largest movement for Palestinian freedom in world history.&#8221;

As marchers began moving away from the intersection and along 16th, Mission, and 18th streets, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/07/san-francisco-mannys-cafe-antisemitic-vandalism/">antisemitic graffiti</a> was seen outside Manny&#8217;s Cafe, a popular Mission cafe and event space with a well-known Jewish owner. San Francisco police closed some intersections, while protesters coordinated traffic flows away from marchers and a sound truck.

Antisemitic graffiti at Manny&#8217;s Cafe investigated as hate crime

As marchers began moving away from the intersection and along 16th, Mission, and 18th streets, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/07/san-francisco-mannys-cafe-antisemitic-vandalism/">antisemitic graffiti</a> was seen outside Manny's Cafe, a popular Mission cafe and event space with a well-known Jewish owner. San Francisco police closed some intersections, while protesters coordinated traffic flows away from marchers and a sound truck.

As marchers began moving away from the intersection and along 16th, Mission, and 18th streets, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/07/san-francisco-mannys-cafe-antisemitic-vandalism/">antisemitic graffiti</a> was seen outside Manny&#8217;s Cafe, a popular Mission cafe and event space with a well-known Jewish owner. San Francisco police closed some intersections, while protesters coordinated traffic flows away from marchers and a sound truck.

Protests against the conflict and the United States&#8217; support of Israel have been a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/03/protesters-police-injured-after-clash-in-downtown-san-francisco/">regular occurrence</a> in San Francisco and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/13/port-oakland-protest-ceasefire-gaza-israel/">around the region</a> since <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/08/san-francisco-rally-israel-palestine/">the day after</a> the Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack in which Hamas militants reportedly killed at least 1,200 Israelis and took nearly 250 civilians as hostages.&nbsp;The war in Gaza has killed more than 41,595 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to local health authorities.

Protesters, police clash at Gaza cease-fire march in downtown San Francisco

Demonstrators gather at Port of Oakland to oppose U.S. aid in Israel-Hamas war

Pelosi attends gathering for Israel in San Francisco; Palestinian supporters rally

Protests against the conflict and the United States' support of Israel have been a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/03/protesters-police-injured-after-clash-in-downtown-san-francisco/">regular occurrence</a> in San Francisco and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/13/port-oakland-protest-ceasefire-gaza-israel/">around the region</a> since <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/08/san-francisco-rally-israel-palestine/">the day after</a> the Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack in which Hamas militants reportedly killed at least 1,200 Israelis and took nearly 250 civilians as hostages.&nbsp;The war in Gaza has killed more than 41,595 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to local health authorities.

Protests against the conflict and the United States&#8217; support of Israel have been a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/03/protesters-police-injured-after-clash-in-downtown-san-francisco/">regular occurrence</a> in San Francisco and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/13/port-oakland-protest-ceasefire-gaza-israel/">around the region</a> since <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/08/san-francisco-rally-israel-palestine/">the day after</a> the Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack in which Hamas militants reportedly killed at least 1,200 Israelis and took nearly 250 civilians as hostages.&nbsp;The war in Gaza has killed more than 41,595 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to local health authorities.

In the year that followed the attack, activists organized high-profile demonstrations, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/30/sfpride-protest-palestine-israelhamaswar/">filling neighborhood streets</a> and blocking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/how-bay-bridge-protest-blocked-traffic-hours/">major</a> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/pro-palestinian-protesters-block-golden-gate-bridge/">bridges</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/protesters-block-downtown-san-francisco-streets/">intersections</a>, in protest of Israel’s invasion of Gaza. In the U.S., antisemitism and Islamophobia have risen both nationally and locally as Israel has expanded its war against Hezbollah in Lebanon and been struck by ballistic missiles from Iran.

&#8216;No pride in genocide&#8217;: Pro-Palestine activists protest SF Pride

How the Bay Bridge protest that blocked traffic for over 4 hours went down

Golden Gate Bridge lanes reopen after protesters calling for a cease-fire blocked traffic

Protesters disperse after blocking downtown San Francisco intersection

In the year that followed the attack, activists organized high-profile demonstrations, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/30/sfpride-protest-palestine-israelhamaswar/">filling neighborhood streets</a> and blocking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/how-bay-bridge-protest-blocked-traffic-hours/">major</a> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/pro-palestinian-protesters-block-golden-gate-bridge/">bridges</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/protesters-block-downtown-san-francisco-streets/">intersections</a>, in protest of Israel’s invasion of Gaza. In the U.S., antisemitism and Islamophobia have risen both nationally and locally as Israel has expanded its war against Hezbollah in Lebanon and been struck by ballistic missiles from Iran.

Pro-Palestinian protesters march through SF on eve of Oct. 7 anniversary

The Standard Staff

Supporters of Israel and backers of the Palestinian cause held competing rallies in San Francisco on Sunday as Israel officially declared war following a surprise attack by Hamas on Saturday and the death toll quickly spiraled into the hundreds.

Supporters of Israel and backers of the Palestinian cause held competing rallies in San Francisco on Sunday as Israel officially declared war following a surprise attack by Hamas on Saturday and the death toll quickly spiraled into the hundreds.

At Congregation Sherith Israel on California Street, U.S. House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and San Francisco Mayor London Breed joined local leaders and hundreds of community members Sunday morning to offer support for Israel and denounce terrorism.

At Congregation Sherith Israel on California Street, U.S. House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and San Francisco Mayor London Breed joined local leaders and hundreds of community members Sunday morning to offer support for Israel and denounce terrorism.

Pelosi, who received a standing ovation, shared memories of her father, Baltimore Mayor&nbsp;Thomas D&#8217;Alesandro Jr., and his support of Jewish community members, as well as her own ties: &#8220;I don&#8217;t have Jewish grandparents, but I do have Jewish grandchildren—in fact, the most of anyone in the Congress of the United States.&#8221;

Pelosi, who received a standing ovation, shared memories of her father, Baltimore Mayor&nbsp;Thomas D'Alesandro Jr., and his support of Jewish community members, as well as her own ties: "I don't have Jewish grandparents, but I do have Jewish grandchildren—in fact, the most of anyone in the Congress of the United States."

Pelosi, who received a standing ovation, shared memories of her father, Baltimore Mayor&nbsp;Thomas D&#8217;Alesandro Jr., and his support of Jewish community members, as well as her own ties: &#8220;I don&#8217;t have Jewish grandparents, but I do have Jewish grandchildren—in fact, the most of anyone in the Congress of the United States.&#8221;

The speaker emerita insisted that, despite the recent and ongoing turmoil in Congress, there was bipartisan unity in support for Israel &#8220;whether military, diplomatically or financially, to help the Israelis, our friends.&#8221;

The speaker emerita insisted that, despite the recent and ongoing turmoil in Congress, there was bipartisan unity in support for Israel "whether military, diplomatically or financially, to help the Israelis, our friends."

The speaker emerita insisted that, despite the recent and ongoing turmoil in Congress, there was bipartisan unity in support for Israel &#8220;whether military, diplomatically or financially, to help the Israelis, our friends.&#8221;

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, took a selfie Sunday outside Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1000011934.jpg?w=2500" alt="Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, took a selfie Sunday outside Congregration Sherith Israel in San Francisco." class="wp-image-209502"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, took a selfie Sunday outside Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

Breed was warmly introduced before expressing her condolences and referring to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">her time</a> on a sister city trip to Haifa, Israel, in May.

London Breed saved herself. Can she save San Francisco?

Breed was warmly introduced before expressing her condolences and referring to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">her time</a> on a sister city trip to Haifa, Israel, in May.

&#8220;These attacks, here in San Francisco, we do not support,&#8221; said the mayor. &#8220;We condemn them, and we stand with the people of Israel.&#8221;&nbsp;

"These attacks, here in San Francisco, we do not support," said the mayor. "We condemn them, and we stand with the people of Israel."&nbsp;

&#8220;These attacks, here in San Francisco, we do not support,&#8221; said the mayor. &#8220;We condemn them, and we stand with the people of Israel.&#8221;&nbsp;

Breed said she mourned the loss of Ofir Libstein, the mayor of Shar&#8217;ar Hanegev in southern Israel, who was killed during the attack.

Breed said she mourned the loss of Ofir Libstein, the mayor of Shar'ar Hanegev in southern Israel, who was killed during the attack.

Breed said she mourned the loss of Ofir Libstein, the mayor of Shar&#8217;ar Hanegev in southern Israel, who was killed during the attack.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed gets a hug after speaking Sunday at a communal gathering for unity and peace at Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1000011921.jpg?w=2500" alt="Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, spoke Sunday at a communal gathering for unity and peace Sunday at Congregration Sherith Israel on California Street in San Francisco." class="wp-image-209499"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Mayor London Breed gets a hug after speaking Sunday at a communal gathering for unity and peace at Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

Around 4 p.m., hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered front of the Israeli Consulate on Montgomery Street for a rally organized by<a href="https://www.answercoalition.org/join_a_protest_near_you_free_palestine"> the ANSWER coalition</a>, which announced similar planned gatherings around the country on its website. The protesters eventually began marching south toward Market Street, carrying signs reading slogans such as &#8220;Stop the Zionists&#8221; and &#8220;End USA Aid to Apartheid Israel.&#8221; As a chilly bank of fog rolled in overhead, they chanted: &#8220;When people are occupied, resistance is justified!&#8221; and &#8220;From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!&#8221;

Around 4 p.m., hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered front of the Israeli Consulate on Montgomery Street for a rally organized by<a href="https://www.answercoalition.org/join_a_protest_near_you_free_palestine"> the ANSWER coalition</a>, which announced similar planned gatherings around the country on its website. The protesters eventually began marching south toward Market Street, carrying signs reading slogans such as "Stop the Zionists" and "End USA Aid to Apartheid Israel." As a chilly bank of fog rolled in overhead, they chanted: "When people are occupied, resistance is justified!" and "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!"

Around 4 p.m., hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered front of the Israeli Consulate on Montgomery Street for a rally organized by<a href="https://www.answercoalition.org/join_a_protest_near_you_free_palestine"> the ANSWER coalition</a>, which announced similar planned gatherings around the country on its website. The protesters eventually began marching south toward Market Street, carrying signs reading slogans such as &#8220;Stop the Zionists&#8221; and &#8220;End USA Aid to Apartheid Israel.&#8221; As a chilly bank of fog rolled in overhead, they chanted: &#8220;When people are occupied, resistance is justified!&#8221; and &#8220;From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!&#8221;

A pro-Palestinian protester holds a sign while rallying outside the Israeli consulate in San Francisco’s financial district on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WarGatherings10082023_006.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-209559"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A pro-Palestinian protester holds a sign while rallying outside the Israeli consulate in San Francisco’s financial district on Sunday.</figcaption></figure>

Rami Abdulkarim of the Palestinian Youth Movement spoke stridently in the tightly packed crowd outside the consulate shortly before the marchers headed south along Montgomery.

Rami Abdulkarim of the Palestinian Youth Movement spoke stridently in the tightly packed crowd outside the consulate shortly before the marchers headed south along Montgomery.

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/3oIMhl2khAU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Protesters gathered outside the Israeli consulate in San Francisco ahead of a protest called “All Out for Palestine" on Sunday.</figcaption></figure>

&#8220;Today we&#8217;re seeing thousands of people coming together for Palestine, to support Palestinians here in the diaspora and abroad, against Zionism and the brutal occupation of Palestine and the 16-year long siege of Gaza,&#8221; he said.

"Today we're seeing thousands of people coming together for Palestine, to support Palestinians here in the diaspora and abroad, against Zionism and the brutal occupation of Palestine and the 16-year long siege of Gaza," he said.

&#8220;Today we&#8217;re seeing thousands of people coming together for Palestine, to support Palestinians here in the diaspora and abroad, against Zionism and the brutal occupation of Palestine and the 16-year long siege of Gaza,&#8221; he said.

A smaller but still hundreds-strong crowd of counter-protesters gathered behind police barricades on the other side of Montgomery Street waving blue-and-white Israeli flags. They clutched a giant homemade banner that read: &#8220;The gates of hell are open: Free Israel.&#8221;

A smaller but still hundreds-strong crowd of counter-protesters gathered behind police barricades on the other side of Montgomery Street waving blue-and-white Israeli flags. They clutched a giant homemade banner that read: "The gates of hell are open: Free Israel."

A smaller but still hundreds-strong crowd of counter-protesters gathered behind police barricades on the other side of Montgomery Street waving blue-and-white Israeli flags. They clutched a giant homemade banner that read: &#8220;The gates of hell are open: Free Israel.&#8221;

Pro-Israel rallies were planned in Marin County and Santa Clara County on Sunday. A community gathering in solidarity with Israel was slated for 4:30 p.m. at the Osher Marin JCC Atrium in San Rafael. Meanwhile, a South Bay Vigil for Israel was planed for 7 p.m. at Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos.

Pro-Israel rallies were planned in Marin County and Santa Clara County on Sunday. A community gathering in solidarity with Israel was slated for 4:30 p.m. at the Osher Marin JCC Atrium in San Rafael. Meanwhile, a South Bay Vigil for Israel was planed for 7 p.m. at Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos.

On Monday, a community gathering for Israel was planned for Temple Isaiah in Lafayette.

On Monday, a community gathering for Israel was planned for Temple Isaiah in Lafayette.

Jewish community members sang and mourned together Sunday at Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1000011926.jpg?w=2500" alt="Jewish community members sang and mourned together Sunday at Congregration Sherith Israel in San Francisco." class="wp-image-209503"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jewish community members sang and mourned Sunday at Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

Pro-Israel counter-protestors yell at pro-Palestinian protesters rallying outside the Israeli consulate in San Francisco’s financial district on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WarGatherings10082023_002.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-209563"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pro-Israel counter-protestors yell at pro-Palestinian protesters rallying outside the Israeli consulate in San Francisco’s financial district on Sunday.</figcaption></figure>

Outside on California Street, Emma Beck said she felt deeply moved by the weekend&#8217;s events.

Outside on California Street, Emma Beck said she felt deeply moved by the weekend's events.

Outside on California Street, Emma Beck said she felt deeply moved by the weekend&#8217;s events.

&#8220;My heart is absolutely broken. It is devastating and horrible and my heart breaks. At the end of the day, innocent people on both sides are affected. Peace is the ultimate goal, but there&#8217;s no room for terrorism,&#8221; Beck said.

"My heart is absolutely broken. It is devastating and horrible and my heart breaks. At the end of the day, innocent people on both sides are affected. Peace is the ultimate goal, but there's no room for terrorism," Beck said.

&#8220;My heart is absolutely broken. It is devastating and horrible and my heart breaks. At the end of the day, innocent people on both sides are affected. Peace is the ultimate goal, but there&#8217;s no room for terrorism,&#8221; Beck said.

El Cerrito resident Eli Bildner told&nbsp;The Standard he was grateful for the chance to be in community&nbsp;and&nbsp;mourn,&nbsp;and to hear statements from California state Sen. Scott Wiener and see Speaker&nbsp;Emerita Pelosi.&nbsp;

El Cerrito resident Eli Bildner told&nbsp;The Standard he was grateful for the chance to be in community&nbsp;and&nbsp;mourn,&nbsp;and to hear statements from California state Sen. Scott Wiener and see Speaker&nbsp;Emerita Pelosi.&nbsp;

&#8220;I was especially grateful to be there with my two young children, and to see so many other children present as well—a manifestation of the Hebrew phrase, am yisrael chai, or &#8216;the people of Israel live.'&#8221;

"I was especially grateful to be there with my two young children, and to see so many other children present as well—a manifestation of the Hebrew phrase, am yisrael chai, or 'the people of Israel live.'"

&#8220;I was especially grateful to be there with my two young children, and to see so many other children present as well—a manifestation of the Hebrew phrase, am yisrael chai, or &#8216;the people of Israel live.'&#8221;

California&#8217;s representatives in Congress and other elected officials have been speaking out about the violence in the Mideast.

California's representatives in Congress and other elected officials have been speaking out about the violence in the Mideast.

California&#8217;s representatives in Congress and other elected officials have been speaking out about the violence in the Mideast.

U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler, appointed last week to the seat vacated by the death of Dianne Feinstein, said she was &#8220;shocked and horrified by today’s coordinated terrorist attacks on Israel and its innocent civilians by Hamas.&#8221;

U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler, appointed last week to the seat vacated by the death of Dianne Feinstein, said she was "shocked and horrified by today’s coordinated terrorist attacks on Israel and its innocent civilians by Hamas."

U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler, appointed last week to the seat vacated by the death of Dianne Feinstein, said she was &#8220;shocked and horrified by today’s coordinated terrorist attacks on Israel and its innocent civilians by Hamas.&#8221;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I am shocked and horrified by today’s coordinated terrorist attacks on Israel and its innocent civilians by Hamas. I condemn this cowardly attack during the Shabbat and Simchat Torah and the 50th Anniversary of the Yom Kippur war.&mdash; Laphonza Butler (@LaphonzaB) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaphonzaB/status/1710671295598252366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said, &#8220;there is simply no justification for this. I stand with Israel and its people in denouncing this horrific act of terrorism.&#8221;

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said, "there is simply no justification for this. I stand with Israel and its people in denouncing this horrific act of terrorism."

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said, &#8220;there is simply no justification for this. I stand with Israel and its people in denouncing this horrific act of terrorism.&#8221;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">What we are witnessing is nothing short of horrific. Women, children — innocent people — being targeted with brutal acts of terrorism by Hamas. All on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. There is simply no justification for this. I stand with Israel and its people in…&mdash; Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1710743935638011962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed sadness Saturday over the death of the mayor of Shar&#8217;ar Hanegev, San Diego&#8217;s sister city in Israel. Mayor Ofir Liebstein died in the Hamas attacks.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed sadness Saturday over the death of the mayor of Shar'ar Hanegev, San Diego's sister city in Israel. Mayor Ofir Liebstein died in the Hamas attacks.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed sadness Saturday over the death of the mayor of Shar&#8217;ar Hanegev, San Diego&#8217;s sister city in Israel. Mayor Ofir Liebstein died in the Hamas attacks.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">This morning I learned of the death of Mayor Ofir Liebstein. He led Shar’ar Hanegev in southern Israel and was killed defending his community. San Diego is a sister city of Shar’ar Hanegev and there are deep connections between our two cities. 🧵 <a href="https://t.co/k8q6k57Nay">https://t.co/k8q6k57Nay</a>&mdash; Todd Gloria (@ToddGloria) <a href="https://twitter.com/ToddGloria/status/1710685573172887620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A scuffle broke out during a pro-cease-fire rally Saturday, in which activists said police pepper-sprayed several of the demonstrators.

A scuffle broke out during a pro-cease-fire rally Saturday, in which activists said police pepper-sprayed several of the demonstrators.

San Francisco police said the Global Day of Action for Palestine march calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza war began peacefully around 3 p.m. as officers escorted a group of several hundred people &#8220;exercising First Amendment rights&#8221; outside the Israeli consulate near Sacramento and Montgomery streets.

San Francisco police said the Global Day of Action for Palestine march calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza war began peacefully around 3 p.m. as officers escorted a group of several hundred people "exercising First Amendment rights" outside the Israeli consulate near Sacramento and Montgomery streets.

San Francisco police said the Global Day of Action for Palestine march calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza war began peacefully around 3 p.m. as officers escorted a group of several hundred people &#8220;exercising First Amendment rights&#8221; outside the Israeli consulate near Sacramento and Montgomery streets.

But, according to an SFPD statement issued late Saturday, the gathering turned violent when some in the crowd &#8220;became violent and began to commit crimes ranging from assault to felony vandalism and causing property damage.&#8221;

But, according to an SFPD statement issued late Saturday, the gathering turned violent when some in the crowd "became violent and began to commit crimes ranging from assault to felony vandalism and causing property damage."

But, according to an SFPD statement issued late Saturday, the gathering turned violent when some in the crowd &#8220;became violent and began to commit crimes ranging from assault to felony vandalism and causing property damage.&#8221;

Some demonstrators eventually marched to Embarcadero Plaza before dispersing. Several officers, along with one protester, suffered non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

Some demonstrators eventually marched to Embarcadero Plaza before dispersing. Several officers, along with one protester, suffered non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

In a media advisory issued late Saturday, the Arab Resource and Organizing Center claimed law enforcement had sprayed several people during the protest, including a rally police liaison who was using a wheelchair.

In a media advisory issued late Saturday, the Arab Resource and Organizing Center claimed law enforcement had sprayed several people during the protest, including a rally police liaison who was using a wheelchair.

The group provided videos with the advisory that appeared to show a police officer aiming pepper spray at a demonstrator across a crowd-control barrier. Another video showed officers swinging their batons at demonstrators who were surging along the barrier.

The group provided videos with the advisory that appeared to show a police officer aiming pepper spray at a demonstrator across a crowd-control barrier. Another video showed officers swinging their batons at demonstrators who were surging along the barrier.

The activists claimed one demonstrator had suffered broken hands in the scuffle.

The activists claimed one demonstrator had suffered broken hands in the scuffle.

&#8220;SFPD&#8217;s violence today against a peace protest is yet another appalling attack on our already vulnerable San Francisco community,&#8221; said Lara Kiswani, executive director of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center.

"SFPD's violence today against a peace protest is yet another appalling attack on our already vulnerable San Francisco community," said Lara Kiswani, executive director of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center.

&#8220;SFPD&#8217;s violence today against a peace protest is yet another appalling attack on our already vulnerable San Francisco community,&#8221; said Lara Kiswani, executive director of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center.

The police did not address the allegations that officers had used pepper spray and batons against the protesters.

The police did not address the allegations that officers had used pepper spray and batons against the protesters.

Kiswani said the group was demanding&nbsp;&#8220;accountability for those responsible for this harm against our community members,&#8221; adding that the community has a right to protest the war, which has killed an estimated 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza since Oct. 7, when Hamas killed around 1,200 people and Israel embarked on a ruthless counterattack.

Kiswani said the group was demanding&nbsp;"accountability for those responsible for this harm against our community members," adding that the community has a right to protest the war, which has killed an estimated 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza since Oct. 7, when Hamas killed around 1,200 people and Israel embarked on a ruthless counterattack.

Kiswani said the group was demanding&nbsp;&#8220;accountability for those responsible for this harm against our community members,&#8221; adding that the community has a right to protest the war, which has killed an estimated 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza since Oct. 7, when Hamas killed around 1,200 people and Israel embarked on a ruthless counterattack.

Since then, protests against the conflict and U.S. support of Israel have been a regular occurrence in San Francisco. Activists have organized high-profile demonstrations, blocking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/how-bay-bridge-protest-blocked-traffic-hours/">major</a> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/pro-palestinian-protesters-block-golden-gate-bridge/">bridges</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/protesters-block-downtown-san-francisco-streets/">intersections</a> in the city.

Since then, protests against the conflict and U.S. support of Israel have been a regular occurrence in San Francisco. Activists have organized high-profile demonstrations, blocking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/how-bay-bridge-protest-blocked-traffic-hours/">major</a> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/pro-palestinian-protesters-block-golden-gate-bridge/">bridges</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/protesters-block-downtown-san-francisco-streets/">intersections</a> in the city.

Police said the event remains an open investigation.

Police said the event remains an open investigation.

Annie Gaus

In a last-minute change of plans, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is making a brief stop in Israel Friday before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/california-governor-gavin-newsom-visit-china-climate/">heading to China</a>.

Newsom is visiting China ahead of APEC. Will he meet with China&#8217;s Xi Jinping?

In a last-minute change of plans, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is making a brief stop in Israel Friday before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/california-governor-gavin-newsom-visit-china-climate/">heading to China</a>.

Newsom had originally planned to make a swing through New York for &#8220;personal and political events,&#8221; his office confirmed Thursday. Instead, the governor will visit Israel to meet with people impacted by recent violence in the country.

Newsom had originally planned to make a swing through New York for "personal and political events," his office confirmed Thursday. Instead, the governor will visit Israel to meet with people impacted by recent violence in the country.

Newsom had originally planned to make a swing through New York for &#8220;personal and political events,&#8221; his office confirmed Thursday. Instead, the governor will visit Israel to meet with people impacted by recent violence in the country.

He will arrive in the country Friday and leave later that day.

He will arrive in the country Friday and leave later that day.

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/california-governor-gavin-newsom-visit-china-climate/">Newsom Is Visiting China Ahead of APEC. Will He Meet With China’s Xi Jinping?</a>

RELATED: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/18/california-governor-gavin-newsom-visit-china-climate/">Newsom Is Visiting China Ahead of APEC. Will He Meet With China’s Xi Jinping?</a>

“The governor adjusted his planned international trip and will briefly visit Israel ahead of going to China,&#8221; said Erin Mellon, Newsom&#8217;s director of communications. &#8220;While in Israel, the governor will meet with those impacted by the violence.”

“The governor adjusted his planned international trip and will briefly visit Israel ahead of going to China," said Erin Mellon, Newsom's director of communications. "While in Israel, the governor will meet with those impacted by the violence.”

“The governor adjusted his planned international trip and will briefly visit Israel ahead of going to China,&#8221; said Erin Mellon, Newsom&#8217;s director of communications. &#8220;While in Israel, the governor will meet with those impacted by the violence.”

Newsom&#8217;s office said that California has provided medical supplies to Israel.

Newsom's office said that California has provided medical supplies to Israel.

Newsom&#8217;s office said that California has provided medical supplies to Israel.

In China, Newsom plans to visit five cities—Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai—as well as the province of Jiangsu, <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/10/18/governor-newsom-goes-to-china-next-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to his office</a>.

In China, Newsom plans to visit five cities—Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai—as well as the province of Jiangsu, <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/10/18/governor-newsom-goes-to-china-next-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to his office</a>.

Newsom&#8217;s itinerary on the weeklong trip includes meetings with local and national Chinese officials along with stops at centers of industry and commerce, including Tesla&#8217;s Shanghai Gigafactory.

Newsom's itinerary on the weeklong trip includes meetings with local and national Chinese officials along with stops at centers of industry and commerce, including Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory.

Newsom&#8217;s itinerary on the weeklong trip includes meetings with local and national Chinese officials along with stops at centers of industry and commerce, including Tesla&#8217;s Shanghai Gigafactory.

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Pro-Palestinian protesters march through SF on eve of Oct. 7 anniversary

Pelosi attends gathering for Israel in San Francisco; Palestinian supporters rally

Protesters, police clash at Gaza cease-fire march in downtown San Francisco

Gov. Gavin Newsom to visit Israel before heading to China

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