AMSTERDAM: Thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of Amsterdam on Sunday in a pro-Palestinian rally, expressing solidarity with the innocent Palestinian people amidst escalating tensions in the Gaza Strip following last week’s unprecedented attack by Hamas resistance group.
The protesters converted the central square in Amsterdam into a vibrant sea of Palestinian flags and placards bearing messages such as “Free Palestine,” “Stop The War,” and “Stop The Attack on Gaza,” according to reports by AFP news agency.
Similar marches occurred over the weekend in major Western capitals, including Washington, London, and Geneva, as people around the world expressed their concern and solidarity with the innocent Palestinians amid unrelenting Israeli airstrikes.
Thousands March in Amsterdam in Support of Palestinians
Among the protesters in Amsterdam was James Casey, a 63-year-old retired tourist from Canada, who shared his sentiments: “It’s horrible. I have no solutions for it… but what I’m feeling is sadness. I feel support for the Palestinian people.”
In the past eight days Israel has launched a devastating bombing campaign in Gaza, resulting in the martyrdom of more than 2,300 innocent Palestinian civilians. Israel has warned 1.1 million Palestinians to evacuate northern Gaza, indicating preparations for a ground invasion.
Initially, the route of the Amsterdam march was planned to conclude in the city’s old Jewish quarter. However, this route was changed earlier in the week to avoid potential confrontations. The demonstration began peacefully amidst light drizzle and a substantial police presence.
On Saturday, tens of thousands of people gathered across Britain in support of Palestinians, participating in demonstrations that remained largely peaceful, thanks to extensive police vigilance.
