Belfast Westlink blocked by Palestine activists causing rush hour delays
Knock on delays can be expected in the area
There were delays on the Westlink in Belfast this morning due to a protest by pro-Palestine activists.
A group of protesters with Palestine flags created a road block on the busy York Street junction in the city that connects to the Westlink.
Trafficwatch NI showed heavy delays on both the Westlink and M2 during rush hour as a result, but protesters have since moved on from the area. Some knock-on delays in the area can be expected.
Footage was shared on social media by the BDS Belfast page, an account supporting the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.
Those taking part in the protest can be heard in the footage saying: "Israel is a terrorist state. We are the people. We won't be silent. Stop the bombing now."
It comes as at least eight Irish citizens have been detained after the Israeli navy intercepted a number of boats carrying aid to Gaza on Wednesday evening, October 1.
Israel's Foreign Ministry said a number of vessels forming part of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) had been "safely stopped" and that those aboard were being transferred to an Israeli port.
Multiple ships including the Alma, which includes Belfast man Fra Hughes and is one of the main vessels, as well as the Surius and Adara, were intercepted and boarded.
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: "Police were in attendance at a small protest in the York Street area of north Belfast earlier this morning, Thursday 2nd October. Officers attended to ensure traffic was managed and the protest has since ended."
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