Thousands of demonstrators around the world took to the streets on Saturday, calling for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza ahead of the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack.
In London, an estimated 40,000 pro-Palestinian protesters marched from Russell Square to Downing Street, demanding a ceasefire and an end to the violence that has claimed nearly 42,000 lives in Gaza.
Demonstrators echoed chants like “ceasefire now” and “stop bombing civilians,” while expressing frustration at the UK government’s stance. Protesters also held signs criticizing Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s response, calling for stronger action.
Similar protests occurred in Paris, Rome, Manila, and Cape Town, where thousands gathered in solidarity, waving Palestinian flags and urging international diplomacy to secure peace.
In Rome, around 6,000 demonstrators defied a citywide ban to march in the capital, while in Manila, clashes broke out between activists and police near the U.S. embassy.
The protests come amid rising tensions, with the conflict spreading to Lebanon and involving Iran-backed groups. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, diplomacy has yet to bring an end to the violence.
