After Israeli forces intercepted a humanitarian aid fleet bound for the Gaza Strip, demonstrations in support of Palestinians erupted in many parts of the world on the 2nd, with protests in Europe leading to road blockades and shop smashing.
The Israeli navy intercepted the “Global Resilience Fleet,” facing condemnation from the international community as a result.
On the 2nd, the German Foreign Ministry demanded that Israel ensure the safety of all fleet personnel and emphasized that Israel must comply with international law. French Foreign Minister Barrot called on Israel to provide consular protection to the fleet personnel and to facilitate their prompt return to France. Irish Deputy Prime Minister Harris described the incident as "concerning" and urged Israel to comply with international law. The foreign ministries of the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Greece and other countries also made statements, urging Israel to ensure the safety of those detained from the fleet.
In Barcelona, Spain, protesters smashed the windows of shops and restaurants or spray-painted anti-Israel slogans; branches of Starbucks, Burger King, and Carrefour were among those targeted. Protesters accused these businesses of being accomplices to Israel's attacks on Gaza.
In Italy, video footage shows students occupying campuses of universities such as the University of Milan and the University of Rome, and blocking access to the University of Bologna with car tires. Media reports say hundreds of people in Turin blocked the city's ring road.
Italian trade unions have called for a general strike in support of the Gaza aid fleet, with more than 100 marches or rallies expected across the country.
In addition to the above cities, thousands of protesters also took to the streets in Dublin, Ireland; Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; and Geneva, Switzerland, to condemn Israel's interception of the aid fleet.
Related rallies were also held in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Mexico City, Mexico; Karachi, Pakistan; and Istanbul, Turkey.