Israeli and Palestinian supporters rally across US after Hamas attack

Israeli and Palestinian supporters rally across US after Hamas attack: 'This is a moment to not be alone'
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Israel and Palestinian supporters gathered in cities across the U.S. on Sunday as the world watched in shock and horror at the conflict that has killed hundreds and wounded thousands in the Middle East.

A skirmish broke out between opposing demonstrators near the United Nations compound in New York City after a large group of Palestinian supporters rallied in Times Square. Meanwhile, Palestinian Americans protested outside the Israeli consulates in Atlanta and Chicago. The incursion left many Jewish communities and organizations in disbelief — drawing widespread condemnation — as it coincided with Simchat Torah celebrations, a major Jewish holiday.

In San Francisco, a Jewish community gathered at the Congregation Sherith Israel, one of the oldest synagogues in the United States. Some students from Israel’s Ben-Gurion University in Beersheba, 25 miles from Gaza, were visiting San Francisco for a week as part of a delegation from the Hillel organization.