Worldwide protests have erupted after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Demonstrators are calling for stronger sanctions against Israel.
On Thursday, across Europe, Australia, and South America, large crowds gathered to oppose the Israeli navy’s blockade of 41 ships carrying over 400 people, including notable activists like Greta Thunberg and various politicians. The flotilla aimed to reach Gaza, where the UN reports famine conditions after nearly two years of conflict described as genocidal.
Global Sumud Flotilla
In Barcelona, about 15,000 people marched, chanting slogans such as “Gaza, you are not alone,” “Boycott Israel,” and “Freedom for Palestine.” Spanish riot police forcibly dispersed protesters trying to cross barriers. Former mayor Ada Colau, intercepted at sea along with activists including Nelson Mandela’s grandson Mandla Mandela, faces deportation.
In Dublin, several hundred gathered outside Ireland’s parliament, expressing solidarity linked to Ireland’s colonial history. Miriam McNally, whose daughter was on the flotilla, said she is proud of her daughter for standing up for humanity despite the danger.
Paris hosted about 1,000 protesters at Place de la Republique, while in Marseille, around 100 were arrested after attempting to block a weapons manufacturer accused of supplying Israel.
In Italy, major unions called for a general strike in support of the flotilla, with demonstrations across cities. Rome saw 10,000 protesters chanting against what they called a “genocidal machine.”
Additional protests took place in Berlin, The Hague, Tunis, Brasilia, Buenos Aires, Sydney, and Istanbul, where crowds marched to the Israeli embassy with banners demanding a “Total embargo on the occupation.” In Brussels, 3,000 people gathered outside the European Parliament, urging the EU to “break the siege” amid smoke and firecrackers.
