The strike is not merely an economic stance expressed by shopkeepers closing their doors. Rather, it is a popular outcry affirming citizens' right to confront injustice and defend their dignity and rights. In the northern West Bank, Palestine, this spirit of struggle is embodied by a comprehensive commercial strike in Jenin, protesting the tragic conditions endured by camp residents under the tight military siege imposed by Palestinian security forces. Meanwhile, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine warned against crossing the red lines.
This comprehensive strike, which began on December 15, 2024, included a complete closure of shops and the disruption of business and educational activities. It confirms that a strike is not merely a tool for protest. Rather, it is a human and trade union right that people use to defend themselves when their basic rights are violated. Citizens and shop owners in Jenin chose to stop working in solidarity with the camp and the resistance fighters who are facing difficult conditions under siege and clashes. Residents are demanding an end to the ongoing clashes and a halt to military operations targeting the resistance fighters in the camp.
Commercial strike in Jenin to protect dignity and support the resistance
In this context, we, the Confederation of Productive Forces, affirm cosyfop...and all the unions under its umbrella, that the strike not only represents our complete solidarity with the people of the camp who are suffering from systematic targeting, but also reflects our absolute rejection of any violation of human rights or suppression of freedom of expression.
We commend the Palestinian uprising to close down businesses, which is a clear message that Palestinians, despite all the circumstances, adhere to their right to resist and defend themselves against any aggression.
Trade unions and their pivotal role
The Faction Coordination Committee in various governorates, such as Bethlehem, responded to Jenin's call and declared a general strike in solidarity with the camp and its people. This solidarity reflects the strength of the organized popular movement, as unions and workers' committees have long represented the backbone of the popular movement and a source of support and guidance in times of crisis.
The general strike, which encompassed all aspects of life in Jenin, Bethlehem, and other cities, clearly demonstrates that the Palestinian people, with their various trades and segments, understand the importance of unity in facing challenges.
The Right to Strike: A Message to the International Community
It is important to understand that this popular movement is not merely an internal message among the Palestinian people, but rather a call to the international community to stand with their legitimate rights. The strike reflects the daily reality of Palestinians living under siege and injustice, and affirms that justice and freedom are non-negotiable rights.
The commercial strike in Jenin is not merely a protest against the blockade or military operations. It is an expression of the will of a people who refuse to accept the deprivation of their rights or to be forced into silence. It is a call to every free person in the world to support the Palestinians in their struggle for justice and dignity.
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Global strike to condemn the war on Gaza
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