Europe Protests Mark UN Palestinian Solidarity Day

Tens of thousands of people marched in cities across Europe on Saturday to mark the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, calling for an end to Israel's military operations in Gaza and greater international accountability amid ongoing ceasefire violations.

The demonstrations, held in Paris, London, Rome, Geneva, Lisbon and other locations, coincided with reports that the death toll from Israel's assault on Gaza since October 2023 has exceeded 70,000, mostly civilians, according to Gaza's health ministry. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and chanted slogans such as "Gaza, Gaza, Paris is with you," demanding protection for Palestinians under siege and the release of more than 9,100 detainees held in Israeli prisons, including over 450 women and children. Organizers highlighted Israel's control over more than half of Gaza despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that took effect on October 10, with at least 500 documented violations by Israeli forces since then, resulting in nearly 350 Palestinian deaths and 889 injuries.

In Paris, an estimated 50,000 participants filled the streets from Place de la République to Place de la Nation, organized by...