Protesters in Colombo Demand End to US Support for Israeli Military Campaign

Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the United States Embassy in Colombo on Friday to protest American support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

The rally was organized by the People’s Struggle Movement, a civic group that said the US is helping fuel a humanitarian crisis by supplying weapons and political backing. Many participants carried signs that read “Stop Arming Israel” and “Justice for Palestine.”

“Every missile and bomb that falls on Gaza is funded with American tax dollars,” said Ruwan Perera, the group’s spokesperson. “This is not about self-defense anymore. It is about destroying entire communities.”

Protesters chanted slogans, waved Palestinian flags, and held candles to remember those killed in recent attacks. Some carried images of injured children and destroyed buildings.

The demonstration took place as international organizations, including the United Nations and human rights groups, warned that the situation in Gaza is worsening. Reports say thousands of civilians have been killed or displaced by Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in recent months.

Speakers at the rally accused the United States of double standards. They said Washington talks about democracy and human rights but continues to send billions of dollars in military aid to Israel.

“You cannot say you care about human rights while supplying the weapons that destroy hospitals and schools,” said Ishara Fernando, a university lecturer who joined the protest.

Police set up barricades and kept a watchful eye on the demonstration, but the protest remained peaceful. Participants took turns reading statements and leading chants calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to military support.

Later that day, the US Embassy released a statement saying the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself but also wants to see efforts to protect civilians and advance peace. Protesters quickly rejected the statement, calling it “meaningless words.”

Before the rally ended, organizers lit candles and observed a moment of silence for Palestinian victims.

“This is about humanity and justice,” Perera told the crowd. “We will keep raising our voices until this violence stops and Palestinians can live with dignity and freedom.”

The group said it plans more protests and public campaigns in the weeks ahead.