Massive protests across Europe condemn Israeli actions in Gaza

London (Web Desk):  Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in major European cities including London, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, and Dublin to protest against the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza.

The protests reflect growing solidarity with the Palestinian people amid escalating violence and humanitarian concerns.

In Spain, rallies in Barcelona and Madrid were planned weeks ago, drawing tens of thousands of participants.

According to Barcelona’s city officials, around 70,000 people gathered on the main avenue, Passeig de Gràcia, carrying Palestinian flags and holding banners with slogans such as “Stop the Genocide” and “Don’t Stop the Flotilla.” Many families, women, and elderly citizens joined the peaceful marches.

The protests were partly sparked by the recent Israeli interception of the Global Steadfast Flotilla—a humanitarian aid convoy bound for Gaza—resulting in the detention of over 450 activists, including Spanish nationals and prominent figures like Barcelona’s former mayor.

Italy saw a nationwide strike on October 3rd, with over two million people expressing their support for Gaza.

Meanwhile, in Rome, coordinated demonstrations organized by Palestinian groups, unions, and students drew thousands to march from Porta San Paolo to San Giovanni.

In London, despite police concerns following a deadly attack on a Jewish worship place in Manchester, protests continued in support of the Palestine Action group.

Authorities arrested more than 175 people during a large gathering at Trafalgar Square, where demonstrators voiced strong opposition to Israeli policies.

Dublin also witnessed large crowds demanding the Irish government impose sanctions on Israel, especially after 16 Irish citizens were detained during the flotilla interception.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly condemned Israel’s actions as “genocide” and urged international bodies to consider banning Israeli teams from global sporting events.

The protests across Europe come as Hamas reportedly accepted some points of a peace plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump, aiming to end a conflict that has claimed over 66,000 lives and left Gaza devastated.

These widespread demonstrations underscore mounting European support for Palestinians and call for urgent international efforts to bring peace and justice to the region.