By Muhammet İkbal Arslan
GENEVA (AA) - A demonstration was organized Thursday in support of Palestine in Switzerland to protest Israel's attacks on Gaza.
About 5,000 people gathered at Lausanne's Place de la Riponne Square before marching to the city center, chanting slogans in English, French and Arabic in support of Palestine.
The demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and banners condemning the attacks on Gaza.
Broad security measures were taken for the demonstration which lasted for three hours.
The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood -- a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea and air.
Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.
The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel and medical supplies are running out.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged an “immediate humanitarian cease-fire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”
At least 3,808 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The death toll in Israel stands at more than 1,400.