Tens of thousands of people across Europe protested on Thursday after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, which had set sail from Barcelona to deliver aid to Gaza. The United Nations has warned of famine in the enclave nearly two years into the Israel-Hamas war.
The flotilla, made up of 41 ships with more than 400 people — including climate activist Greta Thunberg, former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, and Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela — was stopped by the Israeli navy on Wednesday. Israel said none of the vessels were allowed to reach Gaza. The activists face deportation.
Spain Sees Largest Rallies
In Barcelona, police said 15,000 people marched with slogans such as “Gaza, you are not alone” and “Boycott Israel.” Clashes broke out when some tried to push past barriers, and riot police responded with batons. About 10,000 joined protests in Madrid, with smaller rallies in Bilbao, Seville, and Valencia.
France and Italy Protests
In Paris, about 1,000 protesters gathered in Place de la République, while in Marseille, police arrested around 100 people who tried to block a weapons manufacturer accused of selling parts to Israel.
In Italy, thousands marched as trade unions called for a general strike on Friday. Demonstrators urged Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to defend the activists. Critics said Italy’s government failed to protect the flotilla, despite briefly sending a frigate before withdrawing it.
Demonstrations in Brussels, Geneva, and Beyond
About 3,000 people protested outside the European Parliament in Brussels, demanding the EU cut financial ties with Israel. In Geneva, young demonstrators lit a bonfire and clashed briefly with police on the Mont Blanc bridge.
Protests were also reported in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where dozens rallied outside the US embassy, condemning Washington’s support for Israel.
“We are upset, angry, and disgusted,” said Ili Farhan, 43. “They were only bringing in aid and baby food. This arrest is unjust.”
