BETHLEHEM, Palestine (AA) - Thousands of runners from all over the world participated in the sixth annual Palestine Marathon, which kicked off Friday in the West Bank city Bethlehem.

“Over 7,000 Palestinian and foreign runners from 72 countries are taking part,” marathon coordinator Itidal Abdul Ghani told Anadolu Agency.

Held under the banner “Freedom of Movement”, the marathon began at Bethlehem’s historic Church of the Nativity Square.

Afterwards, runners ran alongside Israel’s notorious West Bank separation wall.

According to Itidal, the marathon includes four separate races: a short five-kilometer run for families; a 10-kilometer run; a 21-kilometer run; and a grueling 42-kilometer run for serious athletes.

Gergir Marani, 45, told Anadolu Agency that he was taking part in the event this year to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and cause.

“I’m here with my wife and two children,” he said. “We’re visiting Palestine for the Easter holiday and decided to participate in the marathon to promote its message of freedom.”