Global Demonstrations in Support of Palestine and Lebanon
On October 5, 2024, cities across Europe, Asia, and Africa erupted in demonstrations marking the first anniversary of the war on Gaza. Protesters rallied in solidarity with the Palestinian and Lebanese people, condemning the ongoing Israeli military actions in these regions. Major cities such as London, Dublin, Paris, and Cape Town saw thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets, chanting slogans like "Free Palestine" and "Stop the bombing," and calling for an end to what they described as genocide against Palestinians.
In London, former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and ex-Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf joined the crowd, which demanded an immediate halt to British arms sales to Israel. Similar sentiments were echoed in Dublin and Edinburgh, where demonstrators raised Palestinian flags and banners decrying the violence in Gaza.
In Germany, Hamburg hosted a significant protest while in France, both Paris and Strasbourg witnessed large gatherings aimed at denouncing the Israeli military actions. Protests also took place in Stockholm, where participants marched to the Swedish Foreign Ministry, and in Tokyo, Japan, where a candlelight vigil was held to call for humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In Cape Town, South Africa, hundreds gathered to voice their support for the Palestinian cause, accusing Israel of genocide and racism. This demonstration was organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which is actively pursuing legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
These global protests highlight the rising international solidarity with Palestine amidst a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, as the conflict continues to escalate, leaving tens of thousands dead, wounded, or missing.
