In California, dozens of protesters demanding a ceasefire in Gaza gathered at the Port of Oakland Friday, blocking the departure of a U.S. military supply vessel. Organizers say the ship was holding weapons bound for Israel. Protesters occupied the berth while others locked themselves to ladders on the side of the ship. After nine hours of occupation, police moved in to forcefully remove protesters from the vessel, and the ship began to leave the port as people shouted “Shame on you!” Organizers in Oakland said they’ve coordinated with partners in Tacoma, Washington, the vessel’s expected next stop, for another peaceful blockade Monday.
Meanwhile, during a Palestinian solidarity action in Puerto Rico Saturday, a protester climbed a flagpole in front of the Capitol in San Juan to remove the U.S. flag and replace it with a Palestinian flag.