Global Protests Erupt Over Israeli Blockade of Gaza Flotilla

Global Protests Erupt Over Israeli Blockade of Gaza Flotilla

Protesters across the world on Thursday condemned Israel’s interception of a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza, demanding stronger international sanctions in response.

From Europe to Australia and South America, demonstrators rallied against the treatment of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which departed Barcelona last month to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the UN has reported famine conditions after nearly two years of war.

The Israeli navy halted 41 ships carrying more than 400 people, including politicians and climate activist Greta Thunberg, preventing them from reaching the territory. Among those on board was former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, travelling alongside Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela. Both now face deportation.

In Barcelona, around 15,000 people marched, chanting “Freedom for Palestine” and “Gaza, you are not alone.” Police clashed with a section of demonstrators who tried to break through barriers.

Thousands more joined protests in cities including Dublin, Paris, Marseille, Rome, Milan, Brussels, Berlin, The Hague, Tunis, Istanbul, Athens, Geneva, Brasilia, Buenos Aires and Kuala Lumpur. Many rallies demanded an end to Israel’s military offensive and stronger action from governments and international institutions.

Union-led strikes were called in Italy, while in Turkey, demonstrators marched to the Israeli embassy urging a total embargo. In Brussels, thousands gathered outside the European Parliament, calling on the EU to cut its financial ties with Israel.

Protesters across continents denounced Israel as an “apartheid state” and accused it of blocking life-saving humanitarian aid. Many vowed to continue mobilising until Gaza’s blockade is lifted.