AUSTIN, Texas — Texans united at the the State Capitol on Sunday afternoon to call for a cease-fire amid the Israel-Hamas war.
The "Texas Statewide Rally Against Genocide in Palestine," organized by the Austin for Palestine Coalition, brought people from different Texas cities to the south steps of the Capitol.
Protesters demanded the U.S. and Texas stop aid to Israel and accused Gov. Greg Abbott and President Joe Biden of funding a genocide.
"Abbott, Abbott you can't hide. We charge you with genocide," was chanted among the large crowd before taking to the streets to march. "Biden, Biden you're a liar. We demand a cease-fire" was also chanted.
In October, Abbott vowed "unwavering support for Israel," according to his office. Meanwhile, the president has faced criticism over his administration's support for Israel.
On Feb. 1, President Biden signed an executive order allowing the U.S. to issue sanctions against anyone who directs or participates in acts of violence in the West Bank.
"Today’s action seeks to promote security for Israelis and Palestinians alike," President Biden wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Supporters at Sunday's rally said since the war started, their voices have grown. Some were confident that a cease-fire will come.
"I think it's very important that people are finally now realizing that, you know, it's good that people are finally speaking out," said Sham Al Hindi, who made the journey from San Antonio.
Al Hindi said the power is in numbers, and she will keep showing up if that is all she is able to do.
"I hope one day I get to see Palestine free while I'm alive," Al Hindi said.
Isra Ayad also made the journey from San Antonio to the Capitol on Sunday afternoon. Ayad said she was in Palestine in August 2023, just a few months before the surprise attack on Oct. 7, and still has family there.
"It's something that they are equipped for mentally and emotionally and spiritually, but they just live day by day and hope to make it," Ayad said.
According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's military has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians since its offensive began. Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped 250 others on Oct. 7.
The rally comes after the United Nations' top court ordered Israel to do everything in its power to prevent death and destruction in Gaza, as part of a case brought forth by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the claim and has stated he will do what is necessary to "defend Israel."