As the fighting in the Middle East continues, rallies are being held around the world to show support for both sides.

People here in the Lowcountry are also coming together to voice support.

More than 500 people from many different faiths gathered last night in West Ashley at Charleston's Jewish Community Center to show support for Israel.

Local Jewish community leaders stressed the importance of speaking out.

“I feel that many of us feel a need that we can't just be silent,” says Rabbi Anthony Holz of the Beth Elohim Congregation. “We can't just watch we really need to come together and express our feelings and our concerns.”

A local group led by Lowcountry political activist Earl Cox leaves for Israel this weekend.

They say they want to see what's happening first-hand, and plan to stay in the area until August 7th.

The group is called Israel Always. They want to show the Jews in Israel. They have a lot of Christian support.