Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in major European capitals over the weekend to call for a ceasefire in Gaza, marking the one-year anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas. Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrators marched in cities like Dublin, Rome, Berlin, and Paris, demanding an end to the violence in the Middle East.
Memorial events were also held in various cities to honor those killed in the conflict. In Barcelona, protesters demanded an end to the “genocide in Palestine” and called for a halt to the arms trade with Israel. Security tensions were high in some countries, with concerns that the conflict could inspire terror attacks in Europe.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with police who had to disperse violent protesters in Rome, condemning clashes that left several officers and demonstrators injured. Pope Francis issued a plea for peace, urging the liberation of hostages in Gaza. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also called for a ceasefire and a two-state solution in the region.
The war between Israel and Hamas was triggered by a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 last year, resulting in the deaths of thousands and leaving many hostages. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 41,000 Palestinians, with ongoing tensions and violence in the region. The international community continues to push for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
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