Global Outcry Erupts: Massive Protests from Amsterdam to Istanbul Condemn Israel’s Actions in Gaza

Massive demonstrations spanning Europe and the Middle East have united in protest against Israel’s ongoing atrocities in Gaza.

Across numerous cities in Europe, hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets, demanding an immediate halt to Israel’s prolonged conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians and pushed the region to the edge of starvation.

The most significant gathering occurred in the Netherlands, where approximately 250,000 protesters congregated at Amsterdam’s Museumplein on Sunday before proceeding through the city’s core. Adorned in Palestinian colors and red attire, participants called on their government to adopt a firmer stance against Israel and to cease all arms shipments to the occupying forces.

“The violence must end – yet here we stand because our government remains too timid to set clear boundaries. That’s why we gather, hoping to make a difference,” expressed demonstrator Marieke van Zijl, as reported by the Associated Press.

With national elections looming less than a month away, the protests have intensified pressure on Dutch officials, who have historically supported Israel. Foreign Minister David van Weel recently indicated that the government is “unlikely” to authorize the export of F-35 fighter jet components to Israel amid growing public dissent.

Amnesty International, a key organizer of the demonstrations, called on European nations to take decisive action. “Governments must employ every economic and diplomatic tool available to increase pressure on Israel,” stated spokesperson Marjon Rozema.

‘Gaza: The Largest Cemetery for Children’

While Western Europe’s largest demonstration was in the Netherlands, Turkiye showcased one of the most powerful displays of support.

In Istanbul, vast crowds marched from the historic Hagia Sophia mosque to the shores of the Golden Horn, where boats adorned with Turkish and Palestinian flags awaited their arrival.

Many participants, having just completed midday prayers, called for unity among Muslims to confront Israel’s ongoing offensive.

In Ankara, demonstrators brandished flags and banners condemning Israel’s actions. “This oppression, which began in 1948, has escalated over two years into outright genocide,” stated Recep Karabal from the Palestine Support Platform in Kirikkale, northern Turkiye.

Support for Palestine runs deep in Turkiye, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has become one of Israel’s most vocal critics, accusing Tel Aviv of war crimes in Gaza.

On Saturday, Turkish journalist and Gaza Sumud Flotilla participant Ersin Celik recounted to local media witnessing Israeli forces “subject Greta Thunberg to torture,” describing how the Swedish activist was “dragged across the ground” and “compelled to kiss the Israeli flag.”

Similar demonstrations unfolded throughout the region. In Sofia, Bulgaria, protesters held signs stating “Gaza: Starvation as a Weapon of War” and “Gaza is the Largest Cemetery for Children.” Valya Chalamova, a participant, emphasized, “Our community-and the world-must hear that we stand firmly with the Palestinian people.”

In Rabat, Morocco’s capital, crowds burned an Israeli flag and urged their government to reverse its 2020 decision to normalize relations with Israel. They also demanded the release of Moroccan human rights advocate Aziz Ghali, detained by Israel after joining the flotilla attempting to break Gaza’s blockade.

Across Spain, smaller rallies followed massive protests in Madrid, Rome, and Barcelona the previous day, with marchers carrying white bundles symbolizing the children lost in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Hamas announced partial acceptance of a ceasefire proposal put forth by US President Donald Trump, though much of Gaza remains devastated and under siege.