Global protests mark first anniversary of Israel’s attacks on Gaza
Police intervene in a march in support of Palestinian resistance in Rome, Italy, October 5, 2024 (AA Photo)
On the first anniversary of the genocidal attacks launched by Israel on the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, thousands around the globe marched in solidarity with Palestine.
Demonstrators in Türkiye, the U.K., Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Malaysia and many other countries condemned what they termed Israel’s policy of genocide.
Since the onset of the violence a year ago, 41,825 Palestinians, including 17,000 children and 11,378 women, have been killed, and 96,910 others have been injured. Thousands of civilians are still believed to be trapped under the rubble in Gaza, where survivors continue to fight for their lives amid relentless Israeli bombardment.
Israel’s attacks have extended beyond Gaza to the West Bank and Lebanon. In response, people around the world rallied today to show support for Gaza and protest against Israel’s actions.
Istanbul, Türkiye
In Istanbul, demonstrators gathered to commemorate the first anniversary of the attacks and show solidarity with Palestinian resistance.
They carried banners stating, “Palestinian resistance will win; genocidal Israel and its accomplices will be defeated,” while chanting slogans such as “Everywhere Palestine, everywhere resistance,” “Genocidal Israel will be held accountable,” and “Freedom for Palestine, boycott Israel.”
London, UK
Hundreds of thousands marched in London, demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and Lebanon while urging the British government to halt arms sales to Israel.
The protest route stretched from Russell Square to Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister. Former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf joined the demonstration, organized by pro-Palestinian and peace advocacy groups.
Protesters chanted, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” “Hands off Gaza, hands off Lebanon,” and “Cease-fire now.”
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Thousands gathered at Dam Square in Amsterdam, continuing a series of weekly protests in support of Palestine.
Speakers at the event criticized Western governments, particularly the Netherlands, the U.S., the U.K. and Germany, for their continued support of Israel amid the attacks on Gaza.
Protesters carried banners demanding a cease-fire and calling for an end to the “genocide” in Palestine.
Dusseldorf, Germany
In Germany, demonstrators marched in Dusseldorf, waving Palestinian flags and protesting against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The peaceful march commemorated the first anniversary of the attacks, echoing calls for justice and solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Rome, Italy
In Rome, a protest organized to mark the anniversary of Israel’s attacks on Gaza escalated into clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
Protesters gathered in Ostiense Square, expressing their anger over Israel’s actions in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. Chants of “Free Palestine,” “Stop the genocide,” and “Murderer Netanyahu” resonated through the crowd, while security forces blocked exits from the square, leading to violent confrontations.
After the brawl escalated into a clash, security forces used batons and tear gas to disperse the protesters in the square.
Many people trapped in the square were affected by the tear gas.
According to initial reports from the Italian press, at least three demonstrators, 26 police officers, and four financial police officers were injured, with some demonstrators reportedly suffering head injuries.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
In Malaysia, a large demonstration titled “Jalan-Jalan Palestine” took place in the Bukit Bintang area of Kuala Lumpur.
Thousands of people, including prominent artists and politicians, gathered to show their support for Palestine and Lebanon and protest against Israeli attacks.
Madrid, Spain
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Thousands marched through the streets of Madrid, Spain, waving Palestinian flags and carrying banners with slogans such as “This is not a war but genocide,” “Don’t be silent, don’t be a partner in genocide,” and “Netanyahu the murderer.” The demonstrators condemned Israel’s attacks and criticized the US and EU for their support of Israel.
Spain has recently recognized the independence of the Palestinian state, making it one of the few countries in Europe to react at the state level to Israeli massacres.
Paris, France
In Paris, thousands of demonstrators gathered at Republic Square to show solidarity with Palestine and Lebanon.
The protest, which ended at Clichy Square, featured chants condemning Israeli attacks and calls for an immediate cease-fire.
Caracas, Venezuela
In Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, thousands of people protested against Israel’s massacres in Gaza.
The demonstrators criticized the U.S. for being complicit in the massacres by supporting Israel.
During the demonstrations, slogans such as “Down with Israel, murderer Netanyahu”, “Free Palestine”, and “From the river to the sea” were chanted.
