Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in Rome, Barcelona, and Madrid on March 15, 2024, protesting against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Demonstrations in these major cities reflect a growing international outcry regarding the ongoing conflict, which has escalated over the past two years.
In Spain, planned protests unfolded in nearly every major city, culminating in significant gatherings in both Madrid and Barcelona. The Madrid protest reportedly drew around 100,000 participants, while organizers claimed that numbers reached as high as 400,000. In Barcelona, official estimates indicated 70,000 attendees, with organizers suggesting the turnout was closer to 300,000. The protests followed a recent humanitarian crisis triggered by Israel’s interception of a flotilla from Barcelona aimed at delivering aid to Gaza.
In Italy, police estimated that around 250,000 individuals marched in Rome, while organizers asserted that the actual number was closer to 1 million. This event marked the second consecutive day of demonstrations, following a general strike in Italy that saw over 2 million people rally in support of the Palestinians.
Demonstrations Across Southern Europe
The protests were characterized by a mix of emotions, with many participants expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Activists in Rome organized the protest to march near the iconic Colosseum, where chants and applause erupted for Francesca Albanese, the United Nations special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, known for her critical stance towards Israel. Although organizers requested that only Palestinian flags be displayed, some participants carried banners praising militant groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
One notable banner read, “October 7, Day of Palestinian Resistance,” referencing the attack by Hamas on Israel that ignited the current war. Another sign, displaying the message “Death, death to the IDF,” underscored the intensity of emotions surrounding the conflict.
In Spain, demonstrations were marked by statements against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calls for action from the European Union. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the destruction in Gaza as “genocide,” urging for a ban on Israeli teams participating in international sporting events.
Calls for International Action
Participants expressed their frustration over the perceived inaction of Western governments. Riccardo Magi, a member of the Italian Parliament, criticized Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her administration’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state. He highlighted the significance of these demonstrations, stating that they convey a spontaneous outcry against governmental complicity and inaction.
Many individuals, like María Jesús Parra, who traveled an hour to join the protest in Barcelona, shared similar sentiments. “How is it possible that we are witnessing a genocide happening live after what we experienced in the 1940s?” she asked, emphasizing that the ongoing crisis should compel the EU to take action.
The protests also featured strong messages in Madrid, with banners declaring “Shame” and “Racist War, Free Palestine.” Participants chanted slogans such as “Netanyahu (is a) Killer,” capturing the frustration felt by many.
Following the protests, Greek police anticipated a larger gathering coinciding with a pro-Israeli demonstration in the coming days. Police planned to manage the situation carefully to prevent any escalation of tensions.
As the conflict continues, the situation in Gaza remains dire. Since the onset of hostilities in October 2023, approximately 67,000 people have lost their lives, with nearly 170,000 injured, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry, which operates under the Hamas-run government, is considered a credible source for casualty figures by various independent organizations.
The protests across southern Europe demonstrate a significant mobilization of public sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict, as individuals call for accountability and action from their governments.
