Mass Protests in Chile Over Gaza Hunger Crisis
Thousands marched in Santiago, Chile, on Saturday to protest the hunger crisis in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli military actions have led to significant loss of life and obstructed humanitarian aid. This demonstration, dubbed “The march of empty pots,” aimed to highlight the dire food shortages faced by the Palestinian enclave, which has seen over 61,000 casualties due to the ongoing conflict.
, reports 24brussels.
Despite chilly temperatures, demonstrators filled the streets with vibrant displays in support of Palestine, brandishing banners that declared, “Your silence makes you an accomplice. No more genocide.” The march not only showcased solidarity with Gaza but also criticized global indifference to the humanitarian crisis unfolding there.
Protest signs voiced sentiments such as “Chile will not be silent in the face of hunger” and “Gaza hurts, as does the indifference of so many.” Recent statistics from various international organizations and Palestinian sources indicate that the death toll from Israeli military actions has risen dramatically, with famine claiming another 200 lives in just the past few days.
This protest reflects Chile’s longstanding political stance. In January 2024, Chile, alongside Mexico, urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate possible war crimes committed during the conflict with Hamas. Additionally, Chile joined South Africa in a formal genocide accusation against Israel, submitted to the International Court of Justice last September.
The Palestinian population in Chile, estimated at around 500,000, is the largest outside the Arab world, enriching various segments of Chilean society. Chile officially recognized Palestine as a “free, independent and sovereign” state in 2011, during Sebastián Piñera’s first presidency, reinforcing its commitment to Palestinian rights throughout the years.
