Hundreds of Thousands Rally Across Europe for Palestinian Rights

Massive pro-Palestinian demonstrations unfolded across Europe on Saturday, with hundreds of thousands participating to demand an immediate end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Protesters also called for the release of activists who were aboard a humanitarian flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces earlier in the week. Organizers reported that in Rome alone, attendance exceeded several hundred thousand, marking the fourth consecutive day of protests.

In Barcelona, police estimated that around 70,000 demonstrators took to the streets as part of several rallies throughout Spain. These events coincided with increasing criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, particularly following the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas militants on Israeli communities. Demonstrations featured slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “Stop the genocide,” with many participants donning Palestinian flags and traditional keffiyehs.

Calls for Action and Criticism of Governments

In Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni faced backlash for what many perceive as her government’s inaction regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She condemned protesters in Rome for vandalizing a statue of Pope John Paul II, labeling it a “shameful act.” Meloni stated, “They claim to take to the streets for peace, but they insult the memory of a man who was a true defender and builder of peace.”

In contrast, many demonstrators expressed their frustrations over the Italian government’s stance. One participant, Donato Colucci, a 44-year-old scout leader, emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “I think countries like Italy, France, and Spain have developed a culture of resistance and democratic values more than others because they experienced dictatorship and violence.”

Meanwhile, in Barcelona, 65-year-old pensioner Marta Carranza highlighted the long-standing issues with Israeli policies, asserting, “We have to take to the streets.” The Global Sumud flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona in early September, aimed to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. The flotilla was intercepted on Wednesday, resulting in the detention of around 50 Spaniards, according to Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.

Solidarity and International Reactions

The flotilla’s organizers have condemned Israel’s actions as “illegal,” arguing that the vessels were intercepted in international waters. Demonstrators in various cities echoed calls for global solidarity with the Palestinian people. Educator Jordi Bas, also present in Barcelona, expressed hope, stating, “It’s the only thing that can give them (Palestinians) a little encouragement, to see that the whole world is mobilizing in solidarity with them.”

Protests were also noted in Ireland, where speakers advocated for sanctions against Israel and urged for Palestinian representation in ceasefire discussions. John-Paul Murphy, a 37-year-old medical doctor, stated, “Any plan that’s made without the involvement of the leadership or the people involved has to be suspect.”

In London, police made at least 355 arrests during a gathering supporting the proscribed Palestine Action group. Prime Minister Keir Starmer advised against protests following a recent attack on a synagogue, highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding the demonstrations.

As these events unfold, the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The protests serve as a reminder of the urgent calls for humanitarian intervention and the need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Gaza.