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In Jacksonville, a significant protest unfolded as residents voiced their disapproval of military operations conducted by the U.S. and Israel in Iran, highlighting the ties between these international actions and local military facilities. However, some individuals remain supportive of the military interventions.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Sunday, a local activist organization orchestrated a rally in Downtown Jacksonville, specifically targeting U.S. and Israeli military maneuvers in Iran. The organizers argue that the repercussions of this overseas conflict extend to Northeast Florida.
The demonstration saw dozens assembling outside the federal courthouse, brandishing signs with messages like “Hands Off Iran,” and vocally expressing their opposition to the ongoing war, now in its third week.
The Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network, which spearheaded the protest, labeled it as a stance against what they perceive as intensifying violence throughout the Middle East.
Ryan Delaney, serving as the communications chair for the group, emphasized that the protest aimed to express solidarity with those impacted by the conflict.
“People in the region are being attacked, displaced and murdered, not just by Israeli weapons, but by U.S. weapons,” Delaney said.
Organizers said the conflict also has ties to Jacksonville through local military assets.
According to the U.S. Naval Institute, four independently deployed guided missile destroyers are currently operating in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. One of those ships, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116), is homeported at Naval Station Mayport near Jacksonville.
Delaney said the group plans to continue protesting until the United States ends its involvement in what he called a “senseless war.”
John Scott, president of the Jacksonville Young Republicans Club, said his group supports the military operation and the U.S. leadership involved.
“We stand 100% behind the president, Secretary Hegseth, and the warfighters in the operation,” Scott said.
Scott said the military action is necessary to protect U.S. national security and its allies.
“Not only does this protect our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel, but it also protects the national security interests and the safety and security of the citizens of this country,” he said.
Organizers with the Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network said they plan to continue demonstrations as long as the conflict continues.