Phoenix felt the ripple effect of international politics Sunday when anti-war protesters gathered downtown to voice their discontent over the recent U.S. military strikes in Iran. The Trump administration's actions, targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, have sparked fear of another prolonged conflict like those that have marred American history in the Middle East.
While the protest was peaceful, emotions ran high as demonstrators carried "NO WAR" placards and chanted for a ceasefire, according to an AZFamily report. In what was indicative of the frustration many feel, upside-down American flags were visible amidst the crowd as they vocalized their opposition to President Trump's decision and the subsequent bombings. "Donald Trump, you’re a liar. We demand a ceasefire,” was among the chants echoing through the streets, according to AZFamily.
Meanwhile, some expressed their support for the military action, lauding the potential weakening of what they see as a regional aggressor. Chen Shterenbach, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council, stated in an interview obtained by Fox10 Phoenix, "We are really appreciative of what Mr. Trump has done." Shterenbach further argued a nuclear-armed Iran poses a devastating threat to both the United States and its ally Israel.
The sentiment among protesters however, points to a deep skepticism surrounding the long-term consequences of the military strikes. Echoing a historical unease, one protester told Fox10 Phoenix, "We'll see where America is in a couple years and what this costed us. People will forget that they even supported this, same thing with Iraq. Iraq 2.0." The protest's underlying plea was for peace, a word repeated by both supporters and opponents of the military action.
Despite the deep divides, Sunday's demonstration further solidified the idea that peace, albeit through differing visions and means, remains a common goal for the American people. Nikki Fordey, a protester, emphasized to AZFamily their desire to avoid further global conflict: "We’re out here protest what’s been happening with Trump authorizing the bombing in Iran. Not wanting to be drawn into another global conflict. Not wanting to have American troops die for no reason, and have another conflict that goes on for decades and decades."
