Local Bengali activist walks 16 miles in support of Palestine

Ansar Ahmed Ullah:

London, 18 July: Tens of thousands of people joined a pro-Palestine demonstration in central London on Saturday, calling for an end to the conflict in Gaza, greater humanitarian assistance, and renewed diplomatic efforts to bring about a lasting ceasefire. Among those taking part was Hussain Ahmed Hira, an activist with Bengalis for Palestine, who once again walked from his home in Haringey to the demonstration before making the return journey on foot, a round trip of approximately 15 to 16 miles.

Hira has made similar walks to many of the London Palestine marches since October 2023, saying he views the journey as a personal act of solidarity with the Palestinian people. “I walk because it’s my small way of showing solidarity and gratitude to the people of Palestine, as compared to the daily suffering they have endured during the long occupation,” he said. The distance varies depending on the march’s starting point. Walks to Hyde Park are around five miles each way, while those beginning at Russell Square are approximately three-and-a-half miles from his home, bringing the total distance of his round-trip journeys to around 15 or 16 miles.

Speaking after Saturday’s march, Hira said he was joined by “tens of thousands of like-minded people” calling for an end to the suffering in Gaza. He also acknowledged the support of fellow members of Bengalis for Palestine, who attended the demonstration alongside him.

“We demonstrated because we care and because we want an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people,” he said.

Saturday’s demonstration was one of a series of large public protests held in London since the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war in October 2023. Participants called for an immediate ceasefire, increased humanitarian access, the protection of civilians, and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The march was largely peaceful, with police maintaining a visible presence throughout the event.