Thousands of people rallied in major European cities on Friday to mark the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, protesting Israel’s alleged violations of the ceasefire and its intensified attacks on the Gaza Strip.
The demonstrations came as the Israeli army continued launching ground, naval, and aerial strikes across several areas of the besieged enclave, despite the announcement of a ceasefire. Protesters said the renewed attacks contradict Israel’s commitments and further deepen the suffering of Palestinian civilians.
Protests were organized in several prominent capitals and European cities, including London, Paris, Berlin, Madrid, Rome, and Vienna, where demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and chanted for an end to the occupation and the ongoing assault on Gaza. Activists also urged their governments to adopt firmer stances toward Israel and apply international pressure to halt the aggression and uphold international law.
The demonstrations coincided with the annual observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, designated by the United Nations in 1977 to reaffirm the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including:
The right to self-determination
National independence and sovereigntyThe right of refugees to return to their homes from which they were displaced in 1948
European solidarity organizations released statements describing Israel’s continued attacks amid the ceasefire as a “serious violation” that endangers the lives of millions of civilians. They stressed the urgent need for international accountability and a coordinated effort to protect Palestinian rights.
Human rights groups, pro-Palestine networks, student unions, and labor organizations also took part in the marches, calling for immediate action to stop the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to support Palestinian political and human rights.
According to observers, the mass mobilization on the International Day of Solidarity reflects growing global awareness of the Palestinian cause and rising public pressure on European governments to adopt clearer and more balanced positions regarding Israel’s ongoing occupation and policies against Palestinians.
