Mass Rally in Madrid Calls for End to Gaza War and Israeli Actions
A large rally gathered thousands in Madrid to protest the war in Palestine and to demand an end to Israel’s operations in the Gaza Strip. The gathering was reported by RIA News, which covered the day’s events and the participants’ voices. The protest highlighted broad concerns about civilian harm and international response, drawing attention to the impact of the conflict on Palestinian civilians and the regional stability in the Middle East. (RIA News)
The march carried the main slogan “Madrid with Palestine,” and reporters described several emotive chants and banners from the crowd. Among the slogans cited were “Stop the genocide in Gaza,” “Israel is killing, Europe is sponsoring,” “Palestine, freedom,” “This is not war, this is genocide,” and “Palestine will win from the river to the sea.” Demonstrators expressed a call for solidarity with Palestinians and condemnation of actions perceived as collective punishment, while emphasizing the urgency of protecting civilian lives. (RIA News)
Participants also displayed Palestinian flags and signs supporting various left‑leaning political parties in Spain. The visible symbolism underscored a cross‑section of the city’s civil society, with people from different backgrounds joining in protest to voice their positions on the conflict and the international response they hoped to see. (RIA News)
Beyond the banners, the demonstrators urged the Spanish government to take concrete steps, including a push to close the Israeli embassy and to oppose military support for Israel through alliances such as NATO. The call reflected a broader demand for a reevaluation of Spain’s foreign policy posture in light of humanitarian concerns and regional security considerations. (RIA News)
In late November, it was reported that Israel recalled its ambassador from Spain. The move followed Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s public comments expressing doubts about whether Israel was fully complying with international humanitarian law. The episode was cited by protesters and observers as part of a larger debate over accountability and international norms in the Gaza conflict. (RIA News)
Participants emphasized that Spain’s past engagement with Middle East peace efforts should translate into more robust support for humanitarian protections and a diplomatic approach aimed at de‑escalation. The gathering illustrated a collective expectation that European governments, including Spain, would engage more actively in advocating for civilian safety, international law adherence, and a balanced path toward peace in the region. (RIA News)