30 Sep 2024 | 05:56 PM UTC
Europe: Activists plan to hold demonstrations regionwide through Oct. 10 related to ongoing Middle East conflict
Activists to protest across Europe through Oct. 10 concerning Middle East conflicts. Heightened security likely.
Activists plan to protest across Europe through Oct. 10 in observance of the one-year anniversary of the start of the Israel-Hamas hostilities. The anniversary comes amid the recent escalation in the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah (LH), which has prompted an increase in the size and frequency of protest activity. Demonstrations will likely peak in intensity Oct. 5-7. Gatherings scheduled to take place at the following locations and start times will probably be among the largest of the events:
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Protest at Dam Square from 14:00 Oct. 5.
Athens, Greece: Protest march from Parko Eleftherias to the Israeli Embassy on Marathonodronom from 14:00 Oct. 5.
Berlin, Germany: March from Brandenburg Gate to Bebelplatz 14:00-17:00 Oct. 6.
Istanbul, Turkiye: March from Taksim Square to Dolmabahce Palace from 16:00 Oct. 5.
London, UK: March from Russell Square to Whitehall near Downing Street from 12:00 Oct. 5.
Madrid, Spain: March from Madrid Atocha Station to Puerta del Sol from 18:00 Oct. 5.
Paris, France: Protest at Place de la Republique from 14:00 Oct. 5.
Rome, Italy: Protest at Pyramid of Cestius from 14:00 Oct. 5.
Warsaw, Poland: Protest at Castle Square from 13:00 Oct. 5.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security at all planned demonstrations due to the significance of the Oct. 7 anniversary and the recent increase in hostilities between Israel and LH. Security at the event in Rome will probably be particularly tight since organizers plan to move ahead with the gathering despite officials having issued orders prohibiting it.
Related protests by groups supporting or condemning the various parties to the conflict will likely take place in other cities across Europe. Confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers, counter-protesters, or activists from rival camps cannot be ruled out; violence is possible, particularly at larger rallies.
Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations near demonstration sites. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
