Mass Protests Erupt Across Europe Over Gaza Conflict
On Saturday, tens of thousands marched in Istanbul, demanding an end to the Israeli occupation of Gaza, joining similar demonstrations that unfolded in European capitals, including London, Paris, and Madrid, reports 24brussels.
The protest, organized by various humanitarian groups, commenced at 9:00 p.m. local time (6:00 p.m. GMT) with the theme “Be a light of hope for Gaza.” Demonstrators gathered in Beyazit Square, marching over a kilometer towards the Hagia Sophia, chanting slogans such as “Israel murders, get out of Palestine,” and “The children of Gaza are waiting for us.”
Notable figures present included Ali Erbas, head of Turkey’s Diyanet, and Bilal Erdogan, son of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is associated with one of the organizing civil organizations.
Turkey has vehemently criticized Israel’s recent announcement regarding the military occupation of Gaza City, labeling it as an extension of a “genocidal” policy. Ankara has called upon the United Nations Security Council to adopt a binding resolution to halt the ongoing conflict. Turkey’s position emphasizes the necessity for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations aimed at establishing a sovereign Palestinian state within the borders of 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Turkish government has denounced Israel’s plans as part of actions intending to render Gaza uninhabitable. Ankara has characterized Netanyahu’s actions as genocidal and reiterated the urgency for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate dialogue concerning a two-state solution.
