Large Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations Take Place in London Amid Ongoing Israel-Hamas Conflict

21

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas entered its third week, large-scale protests in support of Palestinians took place in London and other major cities this past Saturday. The demonstrators called on Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza.

On the same day that a limited amount of humanitarian aid was allowed into Gaza, where the conflict has displaced over a million residents, protesters assembled near Marble Arch in the vicinity of London’s Hyde Park. They then proceeded to march towards Whitehall, the UK’s governmental hub.

Police approximations place the number of demonstrators navigating through central London at nearly 100,000. Carrying Palestinian banners, the crowd advocated for an end to Israel’s ongoing blockade and airstrikes, which were initiated following a significant incursion by the Hamas group into southern Israel.

This ongoing conflict has heightened global tensions, affecting both Jewish and Muslim communities. UK officials have called on demonstrators to be sensitive to the concerns of the Jewish community, as London has seen a significant rise in reported antisemitic incidents this October compared to last year. Reports of anti-Muslim incidents have also seen a marked increase.

Law enforcement stated that while there were isolated incidents of disorder and hate speech during the protests, the majority of participants engaged in lawful activities.

Meanwhile, in Germany, authorities in Berlin have prohibited a planned pro-Palestinian demonstration, citing concerns over potential violence and antisemitic rhetoric. However, a pro-Israel rally is slated to occur in the city center on Sunday, expected to draw thousands.

In Italy’s capital, Rome, several hundred protesters marched, holding placards with messages such as “Rome stands with Palestine,” and “Freedom is the path to peace.” The Movement of Palestinian Students in Italy, led by President Maya Issa, was responsible for organizing the event.

In Australia, marches took place in Sydney, where the crowd chanted slogans against Israel and in support of Palestine.

With more than 4,300 fatalities in Gaza and over 1,400 in Israel, mostly civilians, since the onset of the latest conflict, the situation remains dire. On Saturday, Israel continued its airstrikes in Gaza, while 20 trucks carrying aid entered the territory via the southern Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

The conflict has also ignited protests in the Arab world and other regions, including the occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia, Morocco, and South Africa.

In the United States, protests have occurred in New York, targeting the office of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, with calls for an immediate ceasefire. Police later arrested several individuals who obstructed traffic.

In Mexico City, a gathering took place near the Israeli Embassy to show solidarity with Palestine.

On the other hand, pro-Israel rallies and events also occurred globally, with many concentrating on the return of individuals captured by Hamas. In Rome, the Jewish community organized a unique Shabbat meal as a symbol of remembrance for over 200 people believed to be held by Hamas, complete with empty chairs bearing the names and photographs of the missing persons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Israel-Hamas conflict

More about Israel-Hamas conflict

• Global Reactions to Israel-Hamas Conflict
• London Pro-Palestinian Demonstration Coverage
• Berlin Authorities Ban Pro-Palestinian Rally
• Impact on Jewish and Muslim Communities
• Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
• Pro-Israel Demonstrations Around the World
• Police Reports on London Demonstration