**Not Trump, Not Kushner, Not Witkoff… Only Us!**
Nicosia, Cyprus – A significant protest unfolded outside the presidential palace in Nicosia this week, ignited by the announcement that the Gaza 'Board of Peace' was convening in Cyprus. The gathering, which aims to foster dialogue and peace in the region, has drawn both supporters and critics, reflecting the complex sentiments surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The protest, organized by various local activist groups, saw a diverse crowd of demonstrators who voiced their concerns about external influences in the peace process. Many participants carried placards with slogans emphasizing the importance of local voices and solutions, underscoring the sentiment encapsulated in the protest's rallying cry: “Not Trump, not Kushner, not Witkoff… only us!” This phrase resonated with many in attendance, highlighting a desire for Cypriots to take the lead in discussions that could impact their region.
The Gaza 'Board of Peace' meeting in Cyprus has been positioned as an opportunity for dialogue among key stakeholders in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, critics of the meeting argue that the involvement of international figures and organizations may overshadow local perspectives and needs. The protestors called for a more inclusive approach that prioritizes the voices of those directly affected by the conflict.
Among the demonstrators were activists, students, and members of various community organizations, all united in their call for a peace process that is genuinely representative of the affected populations. The protest was peaceful, with participants chanting slogans and sharing speeches that emphasized the need for a grassroots approach to peace-building.
Local authorities monitored the situation closely, ensuring that the demonstration remained orderly. The protest concluded without any reported incidents, allowing participants to express their views while maintaining public safety.
As the Gaza 'Board of Peace' continues its discussions in Cyprus, the events of the protest serve as a reminder of the complexities surrounding peace initiatives in the region. The voices of local communities, as demonstrated by the protestors, remain a crucial element in the pursuit of lasting peace.
The protest highlights the ongoing dialogue in Cyprus regarding its role in regional conflicts and the importance of local agency in international discussions. The call for “only us” signifies a push for self-determination and a recognition that sustainable peace must involve those most affected by the conflict.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the outcomes of the Gaza 'Board of Peace' meeting will align with the aspirations of the local population and whether their voices will be adequately represented in future negotiations.