Thousands flooded streets worldwide this weekend, demanding an end to violence in Gaza and Lebanon as tensions escalate ahead of the first anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 attack. From London to Jakarta, protesters united under banners reading “Stop the Genocide” and “End U.S. Arms Sales to Israel.”
From London to Jakarta: A Wave of Solidarity
In London, 40,000 marched past counter-protesters waving Israeli flags, while Rome saw clashes as 6,000 defied a demonstration ban. Manila activists scuffled with riot police near the U.S. embassy, and Berlin crowds chanted “One Year of Genocide” amid tear gas.
The Human Cost
Gaza’s health ministry reports nearly 42,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel’s military response began last October. “The world can’t stay silent,” said Lebanese-French protester Houssam Houssein in Paris. “This war could explode into the whole region.”
Regional Tensions Spike ⚡️
With Iran-backed groups in Lebanon and Yemen now involved, fears of wider conflict grow. Israel’s recent strikes in Lebanon and Iran’s missile barrage this week have heightened alarms. Meanwhile, the World Court weighs genocide allegations against Israel, which denies the claims.
As Sunday’s planned protests approach, activists urge governments to address both rising antisemitism and Islamophobia linked to the crisis. 🕊️
