Thousands Participate in Palestine Marathon Amid Ongoing Conflict with Israel

Palestine International Marathon Draws Large Number of Runners Globally

The tenth Palestine International Marathon took place in Bethlehem, West Bank, on Friday, attracting over 13,000 runners worldwide. The event was held after a two-year hiatus due to Israel’s war on Gaza. The marathon began at 6am local time and featured multiple categories, including the full marathon, half marathon, and family run.

Organizers stated that this year’s race aimed to promote unity among Palestinian and international participants. A parallel 5km race was held in Gaza, while a virtual marathon took place in several countries between April 17-21, attracting over 5,000 participants from 88 countries.

The event saw participation from 2,523 runners in Gaza and approximately 1,000 foreign participants from 75 countries. The Palestinian Higher Council for Youth and Sports, the Palestinian Olympic Committee, and Bethlehem Municipality organized the event.

The marathon coincided with ongoing violence in the region, including continued Israeli attacks on Gaza despite a ceasefire. According to Palestinian officials, at least 1,155 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 11,750 wounded in the West Bank since Israel’s war on Gaza began. In Gaza, local authorities report that at least 72,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 172,000 injured.

Many participants carried Palestinian flags or wore keffiyehs during the event, framing it as both a sporting activity and an act of solidarity with Gaza. The marathon was held in Bethlehem’s streets and along routes hemmed by checkpoints and the separation wall.

Source: Al Jazeera