Last Saturday, a powerful wave of solidarity swept across Europe as tens of thousands of people took to the streets, primarily in the UK and Sweden, to voice their support for Palestine. Demonstrators protested what they described as Israel’s ongoing actions in the Gaza Strip, despite a recent ceasefire, and passionately called on European governments to halt arms sales to Israel.
In London, huge crowds gathered in Russell Square before marching to Whitehall, the heart of British government. Carrying Palestinian flags and placards, protesters chanted slogans condemning alleged ceasefire violations and criticizing the British government for continuing arms exports to Israel. The sentiment was clear: end support for actions deemed to violate international law. British Members of Parliament and a doctor who worked in Gaza even joined the march, underscoring the broad concern.
Meanwhile, hundreds also converged in Stockholm, Sweden, driven by similar concerns. Organized by various civil society groups, the protest accused Israel of restricting humanitarian aid and violating the ceasefire with continued airstrikes. Banners eloquently conveyed their anguish, declaring “Children are being killed in Gaza” and demanding an immediate end to attacks and food restrictions.
The message from these widespread demonstrations was unified and urgent: governments must act. Protesters across Europe are urging their leaders to take a stand, stop arms sales, ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza, and uphold international law. The protests highlight a deep-seated public desire for peace and an end to suffering in the region.
