The scene in Havana this week brought a powerful demonstration of regional empathy as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel led a large gathering in support of Palestine. Reports estimate the march drew more than 100,000 people, underscoring the depth of concern across generations and communities. The event was documented by TASS and echoed by observers on the ground, who noted the sea of flags, banners, and slogans that framed a clear message of solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Diaz-Canel spoke to the crowd with a resolve that blended national pride with humanitarian concern. He declared that the moment was about accompanying the march of Palestinian and Cuban youth in Havana, and he reaffirmed that the hearts of many Cubans and their leadership stand with Palestine. His remarks referenced what he described as a genocide carried out with the apparent support of the United States, urging an immediate end to the violence and urging the international community to pursue accountability and peace through lawful means. The message, carried by state media and corroborated by witnesses at the rally, framed the issue as a fundamental human rights concern rather than a political impulse alone.
The demonstration in Havana saw participants displaying Palestinian flags alongside banners calling for a strong condemnation of Israel’s actions and loud calls for an end to the fighting in Gaza. Chants filled the air, weaving together calls for humanitarian relief, protection of civilians, and a push for renewed diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalation and a path to a lasting ceasefire. The atmosphere reflected both sympathy and a demand for practical measures that can reduce civilian suffering in the conflict zone.
In the broader European context, Josep Borrell — who previously led the European Union’s foreign policy apparatus — offered his assessment of the Middle East crisis in a recent exchange with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. He described his stance as leaning toward a pro-Palestinian perspective in the conflict, highlighting the complexities of regional security, human rights, and international law. The remarks came as part of a series of dialogues intended to map out a more cohesive European response to the crisis and to explore avenues for constructive engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian leadership.
Meanwhile, commentators linked to Hamas noted a persistent sense of distance between Western governments and broader Arab perspectives. They argued that substantial barriers remain, portraying a Western stance as creating an “unbreakable wall” that constrains dialogue and cooperation with Arab states. The observation reflected a long-standing critique that external actors can hamper the momentum needed for a durable resolution in the region, even as actors within the international community continue to pursue a mix of humanitarian aid, dialogue, and pressure to alter course on the path of conflict.