Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of Spain this weekend as pro-Palestinian rallies turned intense following the Israeli interception of the Global Sumud aid flotilla. In Barcelona alone, over 70,000 people gathered to denounce Israel's blockade on Palestinian territories, expressing frustration over what they see as ongoing humanitarian injustices. While the majority of the protest remained peaceful, tensions escalated in parts of the city.
According to police reports, eight protesters were arrested and 20 police officers sustained injuries during clashes on Saturday. Demonstrators targeted and vandalized several shops they believed to have business ties with Israel, showcasing the depth of public anger and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The unrest reflected a broader wave of mobilization that spread beyond Barcelona.
Similar demonstrations swept through Madrid and numerous other Spanish cities, with parallel protests erupting in Rome and Lisbon. These coordinated actions marked a unified European call for justice and intensified pressure on Israel to lift its long-standing blockade on Gaza, which has severely restricted humanitarian aid and essential supplies.
The incident that triggered the protests involved the Global Sumud aid flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona with the goal of delivering essential relief to Palestinians. Israeli forces detained 49 Spanish nationals aboard the flotilla, highlighting the high-stakes nature of the ongoing crisis. Of those detained, 21 were expected to return to Spain on Sunday, according to Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.
Spain has taken a strong diplomatic stance on the conflict, officially recognizing a Palestinian state in May 2024. The government has also intensified its criticism of Israeli policies in Gaza, calling for accountability and adherence to international law.
Further solidifying its position, Spain last month implemented a ban on ships and aircraft transporting weapons or military-grade jet fuel to Israel. This move underscores Spain's growing role as a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights on the global stage and signals a significant shift in European foreign policy dynamics.Source: