Pro-Palestinian Activists Block US Military Supply Shipment to Israel in Port Protest
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators swarm the Port of Tacoma to protest a Middle East-bound ship full of what they believe to be military equipment and weapons. Nov. 6, 2023
Port of Tacoma, Washington - Hundreds Gather to Protest US Military Shipment
In a powerful demonstration of solidarity with Palestine, pro-Palestinian activists gathered at the Port of Tacoma in Washington, aiming to block the loading of a US military supply ship suspected to be carrying weapons and military equipment destined for Israel. Organized by the Arab Resource & Organizing Center (AROC), the protestors demanded an immediate cease-fire and an end to US military aid to Israel amidst the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators swarmed the Port of Tacoma on Nov. 6, 2023,
Demonstrators Take a Stand
At least 100 protestors, carrying Palestinian flags and banners with slogans such as "No aid for Israel" and "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," blockaded the entrance to the Port of Tacoma. They obstructed gates and lanes of traffic, forcing drivers to turn around, and picketed at Terminal 7, disrupting the ship's intended departure.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators swarmed the Port of Tacoma on Nov. 6, 2023,
Aiming to Halt the Arms Shipment
The protestors believed the ship, MV Cape Orlando, had already been delayed in the Port of Oakland due to similar demonstrations by pro-Palestine activists. The activists in Tacoma, fueled by their determination to halt the arms shipment, aimed to prevent the cargo from being loaded onto the vessel.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators swarm the Port of Tacoma on Nov. 6, 2023, to protest a Middle East-bound
Demands for Cease-Fire and End to US Military Aid
Voicing their concerns, the protestors emphasized their goal to delay or stop any arms shipments from the United States to Israel. They called for an end to the conflict and the aiding of what they referred to as the "genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza."
Palestine flags at ship blockade protest Nov 6th 2023
Response from Authorities
Tacoma Police Department (TPD) and other law enforcement agencies were present at the scene, ensuring the safety of community members. The US Department of Defense (DOD) refrained from disclosing specific details about the cargo, citing operational security. As of the latest update, the protest at the Port of Tacoma continues.
This developing story highlights the growing international pressure on Israel and calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, resonating with the global demand for a cease-fire and the protection of civilian lives in the region.
Hundreds of activists gathered at the port of Tacoma, starting at dawn on Monday, to block a US weapons shipment from heading to Israel. Nov 6th, 2023