ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — As demonstrations for both Israel and Palestine continue across the U.S., hundreds of people filled North Straub Park in St. Petersburg on Sunday for a Stand with Israel rally.

Members of the Bless Israel USA organization say it’s important to present a positive message to pray for peace.

"When missiles keep coming into your city and your town just with no aim, just hitting whatever it hits it’s very difficult to feel that that is the way people should live,” said Rabbi Steve Weiler, who serves on the Board of Directors for Bless Israel USA.

The Rabbi’s family calls Israel home.

"Very painful to watch, very painful to see,” said Rebecca Chefran, Rabbi Weiler’s daughter who has lived in Israel for almost fifteen years.

"We know people who have been killed, we know people who’ve been taken hostage or we know people who know people and it’s that close-knit in Israel,” said Chefran. “So, our hearts are of course crying and devastated and praying.”

People prayed together in the park, standing with Israel through songs about unity.

"We want peace but not at the cost of being subject to terrorism,” said Rabbi Weiler.

Beyond Florida, thousands of people packed Washington D.C. this weekend to show their support for Palestine.

The International People's Assembly called it the largest one in favor of Palestine in U.S. history.

At one point the crowd chanted "no ceasfire, no votes," in a message to President Joe Biden.

Israeli officials have said a ceasefire isn't possible until all hostages are freed.