Thousands Rally Globally for Ceasefire Ahead of Gaza War Anniversary

On the eve of the first anniversary of the conflict between Israel and Hamas set for October 7, large-scale protests erupted globally over the weekend. Demonstrators in various cities worldwide called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon amid ongoing hostilities involving Israel, Hamas, Iran, and Hezbollah, the latter supported by Iran.

According to data from Gaza’s health ministry, validated as credible by the United Nations, Israel’s counterattacks have resulted in over 41,000 deaths, predominantly among civilians. Israel has escalated its military activities, now including a ground invasion in Lebanon, in response to recent missile attacks from Iran, raising concerns about the conflict broadening into a larger war.

Demonstrations were particularly notable in Washington, where over a thousand people rallied outside the White House, urging the U.S. government under President Joe Biden to halt military support and aid to Israel. A dramatic incident occurred during the protests when a man set his arm on fire, which was quickly extinguished by police and onlookers.

Simultaneously, support for Palestine saw thousands rallying in cities across continents, including Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, demanding an end to the hostilities in Gaza.

Violence marked the protests in Rome, where clashes between young protesters and the police involved the hurling of bottles and firecrackers, prompting police retaliation with tear gas and water cannons. This confrontation resulted in injuries to a police officer and the detention of two protesters.

In Berlin, authorities detained 26 individuals at a pro-Israeli event who were accused of hurling insults, with the event drawing around 650 attendees.

London’s “National March for Palestine” was vocal with chants like “stop bombing civilians” and “hands off Lebanon,” reflecting the global outcry against the bombings.

Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati, amidst this turmoil, advocated for international pressure on Israel to cease fire, aligning with US and French efforts to negotiate a truce. His comments coincided with new Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah in Beirut’s southern suburbs, which were followed by additional strikes later, intensifying the situation.