Mechelen – Approximately 1,000 individuals gathered at Mechelen’s Grote Markt on Thursday, Aug 14, 2025, to protest against the violence in Gaza. Mayor Bart Somers, alongside residents such as Gert, Wim, and Hilde, emphasized humanitarian issues and called for increased global awareness, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, on the evening of Aug 14, 2025, a crowd of citizens assembled in Mechelen to demonstrate against the ongoing violence in Gaza. Organized by the Mechelen city council, the protest began with a moment of silence honoring the victims of the conflict.
Mayor Bart Somers addressed the attendees, stating,
“We are here to demonstrate our solidarity with the people of Gaza, who endure unbearably each day.”
Participants conveyed their deep concerns and compassion for those facing relentless threats, underlining the urgent need for awareness regarding the human toll of the conflict.
Why did 1,000 people gather in Mechelen to protest Gaza violence?
During his speech, Somers spoke about principles of international law and human dignity, asserting that while nations have the right to self-defense during wartime, this must be governed by international law. He cautioned that the application of force should not jeopardize civilian lives or violate human rights, describing violations of these principles as acts of arrogance and inhumanity.
The mayor condemned the violence in Gaza, stating that human dignity is being destroyed. He asserted that Israel, even while defending itself, is damaging its moral and ethical standing, remarking that it is “smashing its windows.”
“We want to do something because the madness has to stop.”
Wim from Mechelen
The gathering drew residents from various neighborhoods, united by a shared concern over the violence. Gert, a local resident, expressed to reporters,
“We must support the people in Gaza. This goes beyond political opinions. When such injustice is done, you must make your voice heard.”
Other attendees echoed similar sentiments. Wim and Hilde, a local couple, stated they felt compelled to join the protest to oppose the violence.
“We want to do something because this madness has to stop,”
they reiterated, expressing hope that people across Europe and globally would organize similar demonstrations to effect real change.
Similar solidarity events have been organized in Belgium and other parts of Europe during periods of heightened conflict in Gaza. Back in July 2014, large crowds congregated in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent to protest the violence and show solidarity with Palestinian civilians.
These demonstrations typically feature speeches, moments of silence, and calls for international action aimed at protecting human rights. Such public responses have become a fixture during major escalations in the region, reflecting ongoing concerns among European citizens regarding humanitarian crises in Gaza.
