World protests against Israeli attacks and conflict with Iran

Protests against Israeli military actions in Iran and the conflict in Gaza are becoming increasingly intense, and public reactions around the world are escalating. Thousands of protesters are gathering in cities like London, Berlin, Paris, and Rome, demanding an immediate halt to the violence and protection for the civilian population. In London, where several tens of thousands of people gathered, the protests unfolded with shouts of solidarity with the Palestinian people. Activists carried banners with messages like "Freedom for Palestine," while protests in Berlin attracted around 1,000 participants who faced police due to alleged security threats. In Rome, the protests escalated, and police had to intervene using tear gas and water cannons to disperse the gathered crowd. Protests are a global phenomenon, with demonstrations reported in the United States, where student movements organized campaigns at universities, demanding an end to American support for Israel.

Increase in tensions in the Middle East

Geopolitical tensions in the region continue to rise, with Israeli attacks on targets in Lebanon, where they are fighting against Hezbollah forces supported by Iran. The Israeli government justifies these attacks as part of a campaign against terrorism, claiming they are aimed at preventing further attacks like the one on October 7, 2023, when Hamas executed a deadly attack on Israeli civilians. In the meantime, Iran has launched missile attacks on Israel, further heightening fears of an escalation of the conflict that could engulf the entire Middle East. Iran, which supports pro-Palestinian groups across the region, has publicly warned that it will continue to provide military support to its allies in Lebanon and Syria, further destabilizing the situation.

Anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and global security

While pro-Palestinian activists around the world call for an end to military actions, pro-Israeli demonstrators warn of a rise in anti-Semitism. Such protests often end in violent clashes between opposing sides. In Berlin, clashes erupted when pro-Palestinian demonstrators confronted the police, and incidents have been reported in the United States involving attacks on Jewish and Muslim communities. Security services in the U.S. have increased security measures, particularly in major cities like New York and Los Angeles, due to fears of potential terrorist attacks on the anniversary of Hamas’s attacks in 2023. The UN has expressed concern over the rise of extremist incidents, noting that it is essential to protect vulnerable groups and prevent further escalation of violence.

International diplomacy and attempts to resolve the conflict

Although the international community, including the United States and the European Union, has tried to mediate a ceasefire between Israeli and Palestinian forces, negotiations have so far been unsuccessful. The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has stated that it will not stop until Hamas is completely removed from Gaza. Palestinian leaders, on the other hand, demand an end to the blockade and ensure humanitarian aid for the population of Gaza, which has been affected by intense bombings. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of other countries like Iran and Syria, posing an additional challenge for international diplomats attempting to prevent the conflict from spreading beyond the borders of Israel and Gaza.

Global humanitarian crisis and public reactions

According to UN estimates, the number of casualties in Gaza has surpassed 41,000, and the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. Due to restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid, thousands of civilians are left without basic means of survival, and hospitals are overwhelmed with the wounded. International organizations are calling for urgent intervention, while protesters worldwide are demanding swift action to end the conflict. In Paris, thousands of demonstrators have filled the streets, calling for the immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and Gaza. Protest organizers emphasize the importance of ensuring humanitarian corridors and allowing civilians to leave conflict zones. In Turkey, protesters have taken to the streets of Istanbul, urging the Turkish government to pressure the Israeli government to end its military actions.

Impact on political relations and global stability

The situation in the Middle East has far-reaching consequences for the global political landscape. The alliance between the U.S. and Israel remains strong, but criticism is growing within American society, particularly among youth and human rights activists. In Europe, opinions vary – while some countries like Germany and the UK support Israel, others express concern over the humanitarian situation and call for a diplomatic solution. Protests in Asia are also becoming more frequent; in Manila, protesters clashed with police while trying to block the U.S. embassy, accusing the U.S. of supporting Israeli attacks. The Chinese government has called for restraint and the urgent establishment of peace talks.