CTindex - Christian Today UK Interactive Catalogue
World

London March sees 20,000 Call for Ceasefire in Lebanon; Resolution is Passed

20,000 demonstrators gathered in Central London Saturday to demand an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and Israel.

by Daniel Blake
Posted: Monday, August 7, 2006, 2:18 (BST)
Font Scale:A A A

20,000 demonstrators gathered in Central London Saturday to demand an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and Israel.

In particular, protestors used the march to voice their anger at Prime Minister Tony Blair, and US President George Bush for not calling for a more direct end to the violence in the Middle East.

A small number were arrested as they passed along Whitehall and some threw shoes in the direction of Downing Street.

Organisers thanked all those that had come out for the march, which had been hurriedly organised in just one week. Those behind the rally claimed a great success and asserted that between 80-100,000 took part. However, the official police estimate was 20,000.

Kate Hudson, chair of CND (Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), said: "It's a marvellous indication of the strength of opposition to the violence in the Middle East. It is a very strong message to Tony Blair to get behind the cause of the ceasefire."

Members of the public, political campaigners and Christian groups from around England, Scotland and Wales were among the crowds that gathered at Speakers' Corner in the London’s Hyde Park.

The marching route saw thousands pass the US embassy in London’s Grosvenor Square.

Meanwhile, Saturday also saw a great development in the move to bring about an end to the violence in the Middle East, as France and America, whose opposition on the terms of a ceasefire in the Middle East had been blocking progress at the United Nations, finally overcame their differences.

The two sides said they have agreed on a draft UN resolution to end the fighting between Israel and Hizbollah militants in Lebanon.

Tony Blair welcomed the news as "an absolutely vital first step in bringing this tragic crisis to an end".

The first step towards a ceasefire now appears to have taken place, and many commentators have stated their expectations that a ceasefire could come about within the next week.

However, it is understood that the draft resolution does not include a requirement for an "immediate" cessation of violence, a condition France had previously insisted on. But French representatives said the deal would pave the way for a complete end to the fighting.



Copyright © 2006 Christian Today. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Have your say on this article
Google Advertisement
Externally generated - Report offensive links here
Scripture Union
World Headline
Korean Christian leaders declare 2009 a year of unity

Korean Christian leaders declare 2009 a year of unity

South Korea’s Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant leaders have together declared 2009 as the Year of Prayer for...
Sponsored Features
Order books for all ages commending the free and sovereign grace of Almighty God.
01582 765448 For holidays and retreats in the Scottish borders. Whitchester Christian Guest House 01450 377 477 Friendly printing company for churches, charities and businesses nationwide!
Sanct Maria Abbey, NUNRAW
Cistercian Monastery and Guest House
Bookings: 01620 830 228
Email: nunraw.abbot@yahoo.co.uk
Google Advertisement
Externally generated - Report offensive links here