Tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators took to the streets in major cities worldwide Saturday, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza as the first anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel approaches.
In Rome, police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse violent protesters after a largely peaceful rally turned chaotic. At least 30 officers and three demonstrators were injured in the clashes, according to local media.
London saw thousands march to Downing Street amid a heavy police presence. The Metropolitan Police reported at least 17 arrests for public order offenses and other charges. Tensions flared as pro-Palestinian protesters and counterdemonstrators passed each other.
“We need to be out on the streets in even bigger numbers to stop this carnage,” said Ben Jamal, director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign in Britain.
In Paris, several thousand gathered at Republique Plaza, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans like “stop the genocide.” Similar scenes unfolded in Hamburg, New York’s Times Square, and other global locations including Denmark, Switzerland, South Africa, and India.
Security forces in several countries warned of heightened alert levels, fearing potential terror attacks or violent protests as the Oct. 7 anniversary nears. Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi emphasized, “We are already in a condition of maximum prevention.”
The global demonstrations come against the backdrop of a year marked by ongoing conflict. Since Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel last October, which killed 1,200 Israelis and took 250 hostages, more than 41,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
As rallies continue through the weekend, authorities remain on high alert, balancing security concerns with the right to protest. Pro-Israeli demonstrations are expected Sunday, adding to the complex and emotionally charged atmosphere surrounding the anniversary.
