At 16:00 local time, which is 17:00 in Moscow, a rally drew Palestinians and supporters to Wenceslas Square in the heart of Prague. Estimates by the news outlet idnes put the attendance at around 100 people, a number that reflected a modest yet visible turnout in a city known for its quiet urban rhythm.
Even as the temperature dropped, the crowd remained engaged. The organizers emphasized that the gathering was a respectful demonstration of concern about the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, particularly in the wake of the Hamas assault that began on October 7. The event’s visibility in Prague highlighted how international events in the region resonate across European cities, drawing attention from residents and the diaspora alike.
City authorities described the situation as risky, prompting a substantial police presence to manage the crowd and ensure safety. A large deployment included units trained to respond to potential violations and keep order, underscoring Prague’s commitment to public safety during demonstrations that draw observers from multiple communities.
The rally was organized by a civil initiative named Not in Our Name! — Just Peace Initiative in the Middle East, a group that has mobilized supporters around calls for humanitarian relief and dialogue rather than confrontation. The organizers stressed the importance of peaceful assembly and clear messaging aimed at raising awareness rather than provoking disorder.
Across Europe, demonstrations in support of Palestine appeared in several capitals, reflecting a broader regional conversation about the conflict and its human impact. Participants included a notable contingent from Palestinian communities living in Europe, who joined residents, students, and sympathizers in expressing solidarity and urging humane and just solutions. Local authorities in cities such as London, Berlin, and Budapest restricted or paused certain protests, while the Paris authorities publicly limited pro-Palestinian gatherings, illustrating the varying security and policy approaches across the continent.
Earlier in the week, a pro-Palestinian rally took place in New York, illustrating how the issue has continued to mobilize people across the Atlantic as observers monitor developments and call for humanitarian access and restraint from all sides. The events in Prague, together with actions in other major cities, contribute to a broader conversation about civilian safety, human rights, and the path toward lasting peace in the region.