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US embassy in Poland warns citizens ahead of planned pro-Palestine protest

“Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent without warning,” it cautioned.

Krakow, Poland. Credit:  peter89ba/Pixabay.
Krakow, Poland. Credit: peter89ba/Pixabay.

The U.S. embassy in Krakow, Poland, told members and citizens to “exercise caution” ahead of a planned pro-Palestinian demonstration, the embassy announced in a statement on Friday.

The protest is scheduled to take place on April 13—less than two weeks before this year’s March of the Living—and has been approved for 150 people, according to Krakow police. The embassy said law enforcement would be present throughout the demonstration.

“Please exercise vigilance when in public areas or using public transportation services,” the statement read. “Be aware of your immediate surroundings and avoid densely populated areas or large gatherings. Whenever possible, avoid rallies and demonstrations, and exercise caution when near any large gatherings, as even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent without warning.”

“Keep in mind that demonstrations may occur spontaneously, and you may not receive prior notification from the embassy or consulate,” it added.

The embassy provided a list of actions for individuals to take for their safety, including avoiding crowds, keeping a low profile and monitoring local media.

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