Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets to protest against the ongoing Israeli bombardment and invasion of Gaza.

The demonstration and march was organised by United 4 Palestine, an umbrella group comprising Christian and Muslim groups, the Stop the War coalition and the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign.

The protest, which was one of many across the world, began at Infirmary Fields and made its way to the Tyrls where a number of speeches were made.

Event co-ordinator Nafeez Nazir said: “We have come here to show unity and support. People who have come here have done something remarkable, they have stood up to be counted.

“This is the first day of the beginning of the end of the occupation.”

Lesley McGorrigan, of Bradford Stop the War Coalition said: “People are protesting not just in Bradford but on a global level.

“Such world-wide protests are the only way we are going to be able to stop what is happening in Gaza. Hundreds of people have been killed and thousands wounded during the Israeli bombardment, most of them civilians.

“The western leaders are backing the occupation and the only way we are going to be able to change their minds is to protest.

“The UN has shown time and time again that it will not act on this issue so it is up to ordinary people such as us to stop what is happening.”

The Reverend Chris Howson said: “As long as the Israeli bombardment of Gaza continues we will keep up the pressure. Since the siege began in 2006 this has been brewing.

“The Israelis need to realise that this situation needs a political solution you cannot just bomb and imprison 1.5 million people and not expect them to rise up.

“This has been an incredible response from the people of Bradford and is the biggest demonstration since the Stop the War Protest in 2002, the churches the mosques and the anti-war groups have all got together.”

Labour councillor for Bradford Moor and former Lord Mayor Ghazanfer Khan said: “An urgent solution is required. The killing of innocents must stop and pressure must be exerted on Israel to cease this bombardment.”

An estimated two thousand people took part in the demonstration. Organisers put the figure as high as three thousand at its peak.