A group of around 60 Penn State students and others protested recent Israeli military actions in Gaza on Wednesday evening at the Allen Street Gates. The protest, led by Penn State Students for Justice in Palestine and attended by other groups, lasted an hour.

Throughout the rally, protesters showcased chats punctuated by speeches about the conflict in the Middle East. Speakers focused on Israel’s violation of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas, the Trump administration’s cooperation with the Israeli government, and what they saw as Penn State’s involvement with the war.

“We refuse to accept genocide as normal. We will never abandon Palestine,” Students for Justice in Palestine wrote in an Instagram post announcing the protest. “We will keep all attention on Gaza and on Israel’s depravity and brutality. We must continue to unite and stand for the Palestinian people and against genocide.”

On Tuesday, Israeli strikes in Gaza broke a ceasefire agreement between the Israeli government and the Hamas insurgent group. Israel demanded that Hamas release more hostages as part of the first phase of a ceasefire deal, while Hamas refused and demanded to move to planning the second phase of the ceasefire deal as previously agreed. More than 400 people were killed.

Many protesters held signs at the event, featuring slogans, like “Long live the intifada,” “Zionism is racism,” “Criticizing Israel is not antisemitism,” and more. Around 25% of the protesters wore face coverings or masks.

Students for Justice in Palestine is also planning a “week of rage” from March 31 through April 4. Events include a protest at Old Main, a display on Pattee and Paterno Lawn, and more.