Kites flown in Louth as part of Friday vigils for peace in Palestine
Kites have been flown in Louth town centre as part of continued vigils by activists campaigning for peace in Palestine.
The vigils have been held for more than 110 consecutive Fridays (from 12 midday to 1 pm) near the ‘Fish Shambles’ trading area in the wake of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
And the kites were held aloft in protest at claims that Israeli soldiers would target anyone seen flying a kite in Gaza, including children.
Flying the toys is a popular pastime with Gaza youngsters, but Israel says the kites represent a security risk and a terrorist threat.
In response, many Palestinian parents have chosen to confiscate the toys from their children.
The Louth activists have also been angered by the recent death of ten-year-old Palestinian girl, Amal Abu Khater, who was reportedly killed when shot in the back by the Israeli military while eating sweets inside her family’s tent in the southern city of Khan Younis. She was rushed to hospital but later died of her wounds.
It is claimed that 1,296 Palestinians, including 300 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was supposed to have taken effect last October.
The Louth vigils have raised almost £4,000 for Medical Aid For Palestinians, which is a UK charity providing emergency care, medical supplies and long-term health support in Gaza, the West Bank and refugee communities.
Tamsin Hunkin, one of the vigil organisers, said: “We are calling for peace, justice and freedom for everyone, and an end to the killing,”