Tens of thousands of people across the globe took part in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on Saturday, demanding an end to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza. As the Israel-Hamas war entered its third week, demonstrators gathered in cities such as London, Berlin, Rome, Sydney, and New York to express solidarity with the Palestinians and call for an immediate ceasefire.
In London, participants braved the rain as they marched from Marble Arch near Hyde Park to the government district of Whitehall. Waving Palestinian flags, they called for an end to Israel’s blockade and airstrikes on Gaza, which were launched in response to Hamas’ incursion into southern Israel. The war has not only heightened tensions between Israel and Palestine but has also caused alarm in Jewish and Muslim communities worldwide, with reports of antisemitic and anti-Muslim offenses increasing.
In Berlin, a pro-Palestinian demonstration scheduled for Sunday was banned by the police due to concerns about potential violence and hate speech. However, pro-Israel demonstrations are still permitted to take place in the city. Similar protests were seen in Rome, where hundreds of people marched in support of Palestine, and in Australia, with thousands gathering in Sydney to condemn Israel’s actions.
The ongoing conflict has prompted protests not only in Western countries but also across the Arab world and beyond. The escalating violence has led to numerous casualties on both sides, with over 4,300 people killed in Gaza and over 1,400 in Israel, mainly civilians. As Israel continues its bombardment and a ground offensive is expected, there is growing international pressure to halt the hostilities and find a peaceful resolution.
In the United States, hundreds of protesters from various religious and ethnic backgrounds marched to Senator Gillibrand’s office in New York City, demanding an immediate ceasefire. Similarly, demonstrators gathered outside the Israeli Embassy in Mexico City, lighting candles and calling for freedom for Palestine.
While pro-Palestinian rallies have emphasized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, pro-Israel demonstrations have also taken place, focusing on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. In Rome, the Jewish community organized a symbolic Shabbat table outside the main synagogue, with empty chairs representing the missing hostages.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has sparked a global outcry, with people from different backgrounds and perspectives expressing their concerns and demands for peace. As the violence continues to escalate, the international community faces the challenge of finding a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians.
