Thousands took to the streets in Sweden, France, and Germany on Saturday, protesting their governments’ silence regarding Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and the strict humanitarian blockade on the territory.
In Stockholm, hundreds gathered at Odenplan Square following a call from civil society groups urging the Swedish government to condemn what they called Israeli war crimes. Protesters marched to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, chanting slogans such as “Freedom for Palestine” and “No to Netanyahu’s Plan.”
Read more: Aid Trucks Enter Gaza, Yet UN Confirms No Supplies Delivered to Those in Need
Swedish political activist Lars Ohly condemned Sweden’s silence, citing the death toll of over 50,000 civilians, including 15,000 children, and called for immediate government action against the “ethnic cleansing and occupation” in Gaza.
In Paris, demonstrators assembled at Bourse Square demanding unrestricted humanitarian aid and sanctions against Israel. Protesters symbolically banged empty pots to highlight the food crisis in Gaza, chanting slogans like “Israel is a murderer, Macron is an accomplice” and “There is genocide in Gaza – we will not remain silent.” A protester named Myriem expressed her outrage at the French government’s perceived complicity and emphasized the inhumanity of blocking aid.
Berlin saw around 1,000 protesters gather at Oranienplatz, chanting “Freedom for Palestine,” “Germany finances, Israel bombs,” and “Stop the genocide.” Speakers stressed that no nation has the right to oppress or exterminate a people. Notably, some Jewish participants joined the rally to express solidarity with Palestinians, highlighting the humanitarian aspect beyond politics. A speaker urged Germany to reconsider its policies toward Israel.
Across all three cities, protesters called for international accountability, demanding world leaders impose sanctions on Israel and guarantee continuous humanitarian access to Gaza. These demonstrations come amid mounting global criticism of the months-long Israeli offensive, which has displaced hundreds of thousands and caused severe shortages of essentials in Gaza.
