On Friday, thousands of people gathered in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia to protest against what they call the “genocide” in Palestine and Lebanon, criticising Israel’s actions. Demonstrators called for the Spanish government to sever ties with Israel.
The protests were organised by various minority unions and the Student Union in response to the recent military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
Protest slogans and demands
In Madrid, around 6,000 protesters carried signs such as “SOS Gaza” and “Boycott Israel,” chanting slogans like “This is not war, it’s genocide” and “From the river to the sea, Palestine will win.” Participants, including left-wing politicians like Podemos leader Ione Belarra, condemned Israel’s actions, calling for the Spanish government to cut diplomatic ties and stop all commercial relations with Israel.
Widespread mobilisation across cities
In Barcelona, 4,500 people marched with a large banner reading “Stop Genocide and Colonialism.” Protesters criticised Europe’s perceived complicity in the conflict, highlighting the militarisation of the region and the role of international businesses. Valencia’s demonstration featured a dramatic anti-war performance, where protesters simulated bombings and air raids to bring attention to the violence in Palestine.
Growing calls for justice
The protests, which included smaller demonstrations in other Spanish cities like Santiago and A Coruña, emphasised calls for justice for Palestine. Organisers urged European governments to take stronger actions against Israel and called for sanctions and an end to arms sales.
Teacher network wants Israel before the EU Court of Justice
This Friday, the Network of Teachers for Palestine from the Complutense University of Madrid announced its intention to bring Israel before the Court of Justice of the European Union (EU) for violating the human rights of Palestinians. The network argues that Israel is breaching the clauses of Article 2 of the Euro-Mediterranean Cooperation Agreement.