World Desk

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Barcelona on Saturday to protest Israel’s war in Gaza, as similar demonstrations are planned in Spain, Italy, and Portugal.

Authorities estimated around 70,000 protesters filled Barcelona’s central boulevard, Passeig de Gracia, many carrying Palestinian flags and holding signs reading “Stop the Genocide” and “Hands off the flotilla.” Families and people of all ages joined the march. The protests follow widespread anger after Israel intercepted a humanitarian aid flotilla from Barcelona attempting to break the blockade of Gaza. Over 450 activists, including more than 40 Spaniards and a former Barcelona mayor, were removed from the flotilla this week.

Italy saw more than two million people participate in a nationwide one-day strike on Friday in solidarity with Gaza residents. In Spain, support for Palestinians has surged, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemning the destruction in Gaza as “genocide” and calling for Israeli sports teams to be banned from international competitions.

Protests are also underway in Rome, organized by Palestinian groups, unions, and students, with marches planned from Porta San Paolo to San Giovanni. Demonstrations are scheduled later in Lisbon, Madrid, and other Spanish cities. Athens will see a protest Saturday, with a larger one expected Sunday alongside a pro-Israel rally.

The conflict began in October 2023 after a Hamas attack killed roughly 1,200 people and left 251 hostages. Israel’s military response has since killed over 67,000 and wounded nearly 170,000 in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, figures widely cited by U.N. agencies and independent experts.