Palestine Marathon returns with simultaneous Bethlehem and Gaza races
Updated
Updated · CGTN · May 8
Palestine Marathon returns with simultaneous Bethlehem and Gaza races
11 articles · Updated · CGTN · May 8
The event resumed on 8 May after a two-year break, with runners in Bethlehem and Gaza taking part in parallel races.
Its route passes checkpoints and the separation barrier, underscoring restrictions on Palestinian movement while organisers frame the race as a show of national unity.
Earlier reports said the 10th edition drew more than 13,000 runners, including 1,000 foreigners, and came amid continuing conflict and violence in Gaza and the West Bank.
How does a marathon offer hope when the race itself highlights the physical barriers and political dead ends facing Palestinians?
With a fragile ceasefire and accelerating annexation, can one marathon change the political reality for Palestinians on the ground?