European Demonstrators Call for International Action to Halt Alleged Genocide in Gaza
In major European cities such as Berlin, Paris, and Stockholm, thousands of demonstrators rallied to urge their governments to speak out against what they describe as Israel's genocidal actions in Gaza. The protesters called for immediate international intervention and the imposition of sanctions on Israel.
In Berlin, a large gathering of demonstrators convened at Oranienplatz on Saturday to voice opposition to Israel’s escalated airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza.
Protesters voiced their demands with slogans such as “Freedom for Palestine,” “Germany finances, Israel bombs,” “Israel is a terrorist state,” and “Stop the genocide.”
In a demonstration held in Germany, protesters emphatically declared that neither individuals nor states possess the authority to strip an entire population of their rights, forcibly displace them, or inflict violence upon them. The rally saw participation from several German demonstrators of Jewish heritage.
In Paris, supporters of the Palestinian cause gathered at Bourse Square, calling for sanctions on Israel and unrestricted access for humanitarian aid convoys into Gaza.
Demonstrators in Paris drew attention to the severe famine impacting Gaza, a consequence of the Israeli blockade, by clattering empty pots and pans. The protesters vocalized their grievances with chants including “Israel is a murderer, Macron is an accomplice” and “There is genocide in Gaza; we will not remain silent.”
Myriem, a 44-year-old demonstrator, expressed to reporters her motivation for attending the protest, citing opposition to the French government’s backing of Israel and a desire to show solidarity with the Palestinian people facing hardships.
A spokesperson criticized the limitations on humanitarian assistance to Gaza, labeling them as “inhumane” and a “scandal.” They urged for urgent public mobilization in response to the situation.
In Stockholm, a significant crowd convened at Odenplan Square following appeals from numerous civil society organizations. These groups urged the Swedish government to address what they describe as Israel’s ongoing war crimes in Gaza.
Demonstrators converged on Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, vocalizing demands for “Freedom for Palestine” and opposing “Netanyahu’s Plan.”
Swedish activist Lars Ohly, present at the demonstration, criticized Sweden’s silence regarding what he described as Israel’s genocide against Palestinians, deeming it unacceptable.
Ohly highlighted that the conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 50,000 fatalities, with children comprising more than 15,000 of the deceased. He urged the Swedish government to take firm measures to address what he termed as ethnic cleansing and the ongoing occupation of the region.
On March 18, the Israeli government broke the delicate two-month ceasefire with the Hamas group, initiating a series of indiscriminate assaults on the heavily populated Gaza Strip. These attacks led to the deaths and injuries of thousands of Palestinians, predominantly women and children.
Since March 2, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has significantly deteriorated, largely attributed to the stringent restrictions imposed by the Israeli authorities on the importation of essential supplies such as food, fuel, medicine, and water into the region.
This represents the longest duration of an absolute blockade on Gaza since the conflict commenced on October 7, 2023.
The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has reported that Gaza is currently experiencing phase 5 famine conditions, with approximately 71,000 children under the age of five facing the threat of acute malnutrition.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) characterizes phase 5 famine as a scenario where a minimum of 20% of households encounter a severe food shortage and imminent starvation. This dire situation leads to destitution, alarmingly high levels of acute malnutrition, and mortality.
