Widespread Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations Across European Capitals
Across Europe, tens of thousands rallied on Saturday to call for an end to the devastating conflict in Gaza, as fears grow that clashes between Iran and Israel could further destabilize the region. From London to Berlin and Bern, demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and voiced urgent demands for peace amid escalating violence.
London: Voices Against War and Arms
In the British capital, sizable crowds marched through central London, many draped in keffiyeh scarves and holding placards urging, "Stop arming Israel" and "No war on Iran". Since the war’s outbreak 20 months ago between Israel and Hamas, London has seen monthly protests spotlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The demonstrators braved sweltering heat to make their voices heard.
Harry Baker, 34, who has participated in multiple protests, emphasized the urgency: "It's important to remember that people are suffering in Gaza. I fear all the focus will be on Iran now." Despite his concerns about the Iranian regime, he warned of the dangerous escalation underway.
Berlin and Bern Stand in Solidarity
In Berlin, police reported over 10,000 people gathering near the parliament. Chanting slogans like "Germany finances, Israel bombs," demonstrators demanded that their government reconsider its role in the conflict. For many, staying silent was not an option.
Meanwhile, in Switzerland’s capital Bern, organizers estimated around 20,000 participants joined a rally in front of the national parliament. Supported by groups such as Amnesty International and prominent political parties, protesters called for a ceasefire and urged the federal government to take decisive action. Chants echoed messages of solidarity: "Stop the occupation," "Stop the starvation, stop the violence," and "We are all the children of Gaza."
Escalating Regional Fears and Humanitarian Crisis
The protests come amid dangerously heightened tensions with the United States contemplating joining Israeli strikes against Iran. Tehran reported that over 400 people have died in Iranian strikes linked to these escalating hostilities, while official sources in Israel count at least 25 fatalities on their side.
Amid this turmoil, Gaza faces worsening famine-like conditions under an Israeli aid blockade. The civil defense agency there has documented hundreds of deaths as civilians attempt to reach United Nations and Israeli-backed aid sites. Protesters like Nicky Marcus, 60, stressed the gravity of the situation: "People need to keep their eyes on Gaza. That’s where the genocide is happening."
Among the marchers was a 31-year-old student from Iran, who conveyed deep anxiety about her homeland: "I’m worried about my country. I know the regime is not good but it’s still my country. I’m scared."
Human Cost and Political Claims
Since hostilities erupted, the death toll in Gaza has climbed to at least 55,637 people, according to health authorities there. While Israel denies accusations of committing genocide, it maintains that its objective is to eliminate Hamas after the group’s lethal attack in October 2023 that claimed 1,219 Israeli lives.
What Lies Ahead?
The widespread demonstrations in European cities underscore a growing global outcry against the conflict’s dire humanitarian impact and the threat of wider regional war. With tensions escalating, calls for diplomacy and humanitarian aid efforts continue to intensify.
