Protests highlight Maryland’s ties to Israeli tech and defense systems
More than a year after the Oct. 7 attacks that spurred Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, some Maryland residents have continued protesting Israel’s conduct in the conflict.
Like others around the world demonstrating in solidarity against Israel’s ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories and the tens of thousands killed, these protestors have illuminated the local dimensions of this international issue. Much of their attention has fallen on an organization using public and private resources to facilitate economic exchange with Israel — including with companies developing tech for its military actions.
A local group called Al-Aqsa Swim Club has held demonstrations and posted information about the state’s economic connections to Israel throughout 2024. Work particularly ramped up in tandem with the first anniversary of Oct. 7, with demonstrators showing up to politicians’ houses calling for a ceasefire, posting educational graphics on Instagram and creating an in-depth resource guide.