Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Jacksonville became a focal point for protest as dozens of demonstrators voiced their opposition to U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iran. The gathering, organized by a local activist group, highlighted the community’s concerns about how global conflicts resonate locally, particularly in relation to Northeast Florida’s military assets.
The rally took place on Sunday in Downtown Jacksonville, where participants assembled in front of the federal courthouse. Protesters held signs emblazoned with messages like “Hands Off Iran” and chanted against a war that has now persisted for three weeks.
Organized by the Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network, the event was a response to what they perceive as increasing violence throughout the Middle East. The group aims to raise awareness and express solidarity with those affected by the ongoing conflict.
Ryan Delaney, who serves as the communications chair for the network, emphasized the demonstration’s purpose. “People in the region are being attacked, displaced, and murdered, not just by Israeli weapons, but by U.S. weapons,” Delaney stated, underscoring the demonstration’s message and the broader implications of foreign policy decisions.
Ryan Delaney, the group’s communications chair, said the demonstration was intended to show support for people affected 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.
