STUDENTS at an Edinburgh high school came together on a walkout for Palestine today, calling for a ceasefire and an end to occupation.
Pupils and parents from James Gillespies High School, located near the Meadows area of the city, walked out in an effort to put pressure on the UK Government over Gaza.
The school is one of Edinburgh's most multi-cultural, and has pupils of Palestinian heritage.
Aisha, an S3 Palestinian pupil, said it has been "very difficult" to see what is happening in Gaza.
"I have family there," she explained. "I feel very scared for their safety. Coming together like this with other pupils to raise awareness, helps me feel like I'm doing something."
Sara, a Palestinian parent who was one of the organisers, said: "Human rights charity Amnesty International has called for an immediate ceasefire to end unprecedented civilian suffering and Unicef has declared that the situation in Gaza is a war on children.
"Our children are eager to voice their concerns and to show solidarity with the children of Palestine. We hope that this social action will shine a light on the plight of the Palestinian people and put pressure on the UK government to call for a permanent ceasefire."
Simona, another parent with two children at the school took part, said: "We decided to take part in the walkout today to show our support for the innocent Palestinian people who are suffering so horribly in the siege of Gaza, especially the children who are being killed, maimed and losing parents. It's heartbreaking.
"Anyone with humanity should want this to stop."
The walkout event in the school yard was held with the permission of the school. The organisers say they are hoping it will inspire pupils in other schools to also take social action.
