Emotional protest emerges in UAE at COP28, activists navigate restrictions to support Gaza ceasefire

In a rare display of dissent in a country where protests are banned, over 100 tearful activists, donned in keffiyehs, gathered at the COP28 “Blue Zone” during the UN climate talks in the UAE. Hindered by strict guidelines, the emotional crowd demanded a Gaza ceasefire, bypassing restrictions with watermelons as a symbol of solidarity.

The UAE, known for its prohibition of protests, saw this as an unprecedented event during the climate talks.

Activists Navigate UN Restrictions Amid Emotional Call for Solidarity

Despite UN restrictions limiting the use of Palestinian flags and certain slogans, Asad Rehman, lead spokesman for the Climate Justice Coalition, rallied the crowd with a heartfelt message: “We say to the Palestinian people that the international community may have forgotten you, but you are not alone.”

The gathering, although smaller than global mobilizations, marked a significant moment for the UAE, where social unrest is strictly prohibited.

UN Guidelines Pose Challenges for Activists

Activist actions unfolded on the fourth day of the climate talks, with organizers facing hurdles imposed by both UN guidelines and Emirati authorities.

Abderraouf Ben Mohamed of the Debt for Climate group revealed the challenges they faced: “We were not allowed to name states or raise (Palestinian) flags,” prompting them to use watermelons as a workaround. Damian Godzisz, a member of the UAE’s COP28 team, expressed frustration at the removal of a Palestinian flag and keffiyeh scarf at a security check, deeming it insensitive.

Impact of Gaza Conflict on Climate Talks

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict cast a shadow over the climate talks, impacting the Palestinian Authority’s COP28 delegation. Only 10 representatives managed to attend, with many canceling due to the war.

Hadeel Ikhmais, a climate expert with the PA, shared the struggles of reaching Dubai amid checkpoints and expressed the delegation’s desire to return home.

Clash of Perspectives at COP28

The Israeli pavilion, located just meters away, showcased a book of posters highlighting those held hostage by Hamas. Israel’s national coordinator for COP28, Maya Kadosh, spoke of bias among activists and emphasized the need to understand Israeli suffering.

She called for support in freeing Palestine from Hamas, highlighting the complexity of perspectives present at the climate conference.

Israeli Representation Impacted by Conflict

While Israel had initially planned a 1,000-strong representation at COP28, the conflict reduced the figure to around 100, including 30 government officials. The war’s toll on civilians, as expressed by both sides, continues to fuel discussions and emotional moments within the COP28 venue.