Across the world, the black-and-white keffiyeh head scarf has become an emblem of solidarity with the Palestinian cause as Israel’s bombardment of Gaza continues. It has also become a problem for those wearing it.

According to Reuters, supporters of Israel see the chequered scarf as a provocation and a sign of backing for what they see as terrorism.

Thousands of people have worn keffiyehs in huge protests in Britain and elsewhere in support of the Palestinians and calling for a ceasefire in the conflict.

But activists say police in France and Germany — which have cracked down on pro-Palestinian protests — have cautioned, fined or detained people wearing it.

Ramy Al-Asheq, a Palestinian-Syrian poet who lives in Berlin, believes he has found a way around the problem. He had the length of his forearm tattooed with the pattern of a keffiyeh.

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