Protests Erupt Worldwide Demanding End to Violence in Gaza on Hamas Attack Anniversary
Thousands took to the streets in Madrid this Saturday as part of a massive mobilization demanding the Spanish government to act against the ongoing violence in Gaza and to push for an end to the Middle Eastern conflict. This protest marked the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attack that tragically claimed 1200 lives. Organized by the Solidarity Network against the Occupation of Palestine (RESCOP), the demonstrators marched from Atocha to Puerta del Sol, calling for a cease to arms trading with Israel and urging sanctions against its government.
The protests were not confined to Madrid; similar demonstrations were held across various cities in Spain, resonating with a collective call to the government to take a firmer stance. Protesters displayed banners and shouted slogans denouncing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and U.S. President Biden, reflecting widespread frustration over the handling of the crisis. The atmosphere escalated near Congress, prompting police intervention to restore order.
However, the Madrid protests were just one part of a larger global wave of demonstrations. In Rome, around 7,000 people gathered despite a ban from police officials who cited security concerns as the reason for prohibiting the protest. Tensions surged as peaceful protests turned chaotic, leading to confrontations with law enforcement. At least 24 police officers and three demonstrators sustained injuries, while riot police used batons and tear gas to disperse crowds, resulting in five arrests.
In London, activists made similar demands for a ceasefire, while thousands marched towards Parliament in South Africa, echoing calls for Palestinian freedom. Globally, citizens expressed their solidarity, with demonstrations reported in places like New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
The scale and intensity of these protests reflect a growing global concern over the situation in Gaza and the call for justice and peace in the region. As tensions remain high and the humanitarian crisis unfolds, the world watches to see how governments respond to these urgent calls for action.
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