Pro Palestine march turns ugly as violence erupts sending terrified diners fleeing
By Emma Sisk,

Violence erupted as pro Palestine protesters took to the streets of Cardiff in a march against ongoing fighting in Gaza.

Terrified diners were sent scattering yesterday as thugs picked up tables and chairs and launched them into the passing crowds.

South Wales Police said around 1,500 people took part in the march.

A spokesman said: “Police are continuing with their investigations into both incidents through recovery of CCTV footage and enquiries with witnesses, however South Wales Police would like anyone with information to come forward.”

Wales Online reported that the protest was largely peaceful.

Chants of “Free, free Palestine” echoed through the streets of Cardiff from 2.30pm as men, women and children filed through the busy city centre.

Marchers unconnected with the violent scenes told why they were there.

Tariq Mohamed, 36, from Barry said he was marching to show his solidarity with the people of Palestine.

He said: “We need to protect the innocent people who are being killed every day. It’s not about race or religion. It's all down to the Government.

"They need to do something. They need to stop the oppressor and protect the oppressed. That is what today is all about.”

Israel’s incursion into Gaza has killed more than 1,000 Palestinians, including at least 192 children.

Efforts by international powers to broker a complete end to the violence have so far proved fruitless, with Israel’s defense minister warning Israel may soon “significantly” expand the ground operation in Gaza.

Kimberley Chambers, from Cardiff, said she was protesting against the “obliteration” of Palestinians.

The 29-year-old said: “Every time I watch the news all I hear about is the Israelis who have been killed. They are the ones who are being given millions of pounds to slaughter Palestinians. It’s an unfair war. It’s not right. There needs to be more awareness. That’s why I am here.”

Project manager Shamim Rahman, 42, came from Newport to participate in the march.

He said: “It is very bad now. It is so sad for humans to do that to each other. Young children and women are being killed for no reason. It must stop.”

Unite, the biggest union in the UK, has branded the killing of young people as “deplorable”.

A statement of solidarity with the Palestinians stated the retaliation from Israeli settlers and the Israeli authorities was “utterly disproportionate and unjustified.”

Further events against Israel’s military operation in Gaza were underway in other towns and cities across the UK yesterday including Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Newcastle. Over 45,000 people gathered to protest in London.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news...s-ugly-3920391