Protesters demanding a cease-fire in the Israeli war in Gaza strategically obstructed a U.S. military supply ship departing from the Port of Oakland, effectively stalling its departure for several hours on Friday. The protesters ingeniously fastened themselves to the vessel, preventing its movement.
In addition to blocking the ship, the protesters also created a blockade at the entrance to Berth 20 where the container carrier Cape Orlando is docked. These activist groups claim that the ship is destined for Israel after being loaded with weapons and military equipment in Tacoma, Washington.
The large-scale protest was impeccably organized by the Arab Resource Organizing Center, which is based in San Francisco. Authorities, including police, were present at the scene to manage the situation. The protest attracted about 200 participants, many of whom held Palestinian flags and banners demanding an immediate end to U.S. military aid to Israel.
The protest commenced at 6:45 a.m. and remarkably did not disrupt any other cargo handling operations at the Port of Oakland. A spokesperson for the port confirmed this information.
The Oakland Police, in coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Port of Oakland, diligently monitored the protest to ensure its peaceful nature. As of Friday 2 p.m., no arrests had been made.
The protesters peacefully dispersed from the port at approximately 4:30 p.m., shortly after the ship’s departure.
In a press release by the Arab Resource Organizing Center, it was revealed that three protesters who climbed onto the vessel were apprehended by the U.S. Coast Guard. This federal agency has jurisdiction over water-related incidents. Due to the ongoing investigation, Coast Guard Petty Officer Hunter Schnabel declined to provide further details but confirmed that multiple individuals are currently under investigation.
The press release also called on communities in cities worldwide to remain vigilant for vessels carrying similar cargo.
The real-time location of the vessel can be found online here.
