Protests Sweep Across Europe in Support of Palestinians
In a wave of demonstrations spanning several European cities, hundreds of thousands rallied to express their backing for the Palestinian cause and to mark the anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The marches came amid growing concerns over the sustained military operations in Gaza, which many observers have described as a humanitarian crisis.
Demonstrations in Turkey and the Netherlands
In Turkey, the city of Istanbul hosted the largest of several protests. Participants moved from the historic former Byzantine cathedral to the banks of the Golden Horn, where boats adorned with Turkish and Palestinian flags awaited. The demonstrators, who gathered following midday prayers at a mosque that was once a cathedral, called for greater Muslim solidarity with Palestinians.
Meanwhile, in Amsterdam, an estimated 250,000 people—many dressed in red—converged on the city center, urging the government to reassess its approach toward Israel. Protesters, carrying Palestinian flags and peace symbols, marched through central Museum Square and the surrounding streets. Chants calling for an end to the ongoing violence resonated as the demonstrators demanded that the government take a firmer stance in the region.
Outcry and Mourning in Britain and Paris
Across the United Kingdom, hundreds gathered outside Manchester Cathedral to honor the lives lost in a recent attack on a synagogue and to mark Hamas’ 2023 assault. Participants held both Israeli and British flags, with many demanding the release of hostages. Banners paid tribute to those who died, ensuring that their courage would not be forgotten.
Paris also witnessed a heartfelt demonstration, as hundreds took to the streets bearing Israeli flags and chanting for the freedom of hostages. Their united voices underscored the deep concern for the human cost of the conflict.
Marches in Bulgaria and Morocco
In Sofia, protesters carried signs with poignant messages such as “Gaza: Starvation is a Weapon of War” and “Gaza is the Biggest Graveyard of Children.” The demonstrators also paid homage to the heroes of a flotilla initiative aimed at supporting the Palestinian cause. One participant emphasized the importance of standing with the Palestinian people as a global community.
Similarly, in Morocco’s capital Rabat, citizens from diverse backgrounds filled the streets. Many wore traditional Arab keffiyehs while expressing their discontent. The protest featured symbolic actions, including the burning of an Israeli flag, as demonstrators called for a reversal of past normalization efforts with Israel and demanded the release of detained activists.
Wider European Mobilization
Throughout Spain and other cities such as Paris, Lisbon, Athens, and London, smaller rallies and marches further amplified demands for change. In northern Spanish cities, demonstrators carried white bundles symbolizing the lives lost, while calls for an end to what many described as genocide were repeated in numerous locations across Europe. These protests underscored an escalating international outcry over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
The ongoing demonstrations illustrate a continent deeply divided over the issue, as citizens continue to express their hope for a resolution that can bring an end to the cycle of violence.

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