On Sunday, pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted a pro-Israel demonstration at Sea Point. A group of counter-protesters for Palestine were dispersed with stun grenades and water cannons after the police dispersed buses of Israel-supporting protesters.
Protesters and police in riot gear engaged in a standoff. Before either protest began, there was a heavy police presence, including city law enforcement officers and SAPS officers. A total of four people were arrested and charged with public violence.
In support of the Palestinians, thousands of people protested on Saturday, but no clashes were reported. As in the case of Russia, tens of thousands of people marched through Cape Town city center calling for the closure of the Israeli embassy.
Meanwhile, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis called for tolerance.
“Cape Town’s commitment to tolerance and freedom of expression is sacrosanct,” he wrote. In a time of great global dispute and conflict, Cape Town has thus far been an example of tolerance. While we have seen violent protests all over the world in recent weeks, protests here have been an example of peacefulness, with very few exceptions. As mayor, I have been proud of our city. We have shown restraint, maturity and a commitment to the rights of all residents to express themselves,” he wrote.
