Thousands rally in Rome to support Palestine amid conflict with Israel

By Barıs Seckin

ROME (AA) - Thousands gathered in Rome to voice support for Palestine and denounce Israel's recent attacks against Gaza.

The demonstration was attended by people from various nationalities, including Italians, Palestinians and Arabs from all age groups. "Free Palestine," "Free Jerusalem" and "Freedom for Gaza" were frequently chanted, and red and green flares were lit in the colors of the Palestinian flag.

Protesters carried signs demanding an immediate end to the relentless bombardment of Gaza.

Valeria, an Italian, holding a Palestinian flag, voiced her commitment to the Palestine cause and her concerns about Israel's expansion into Palestinian territories -- a violation of numerous UN resolutions and international law.

She criticized Western governments for their perceived silence and complicity.

“We are all guilty, especially Western governments, for never encouraging the establishment of a Palestinian state by supporting Israel,” she said.

The rally, which included university students forming a procession to show solidarity with Palestine, was not without tense moments, with reports of sporadic fighting between demonstrators and security forces.

Another rally for Palestine was held in Naples.

Italian mosques offered prayers for Palestinians after Friday prayers, underscoring the widespread concern and empathy for the besieged community with the ongoing crisis.

Italy is not alone in expressing support for Palestine.

Solidarity rallies are anticipated in Milan, Palermo and Turin in the coming days.

- Greece

A pro-Palestine demonstration was organized in Athens.

Approximately 2,000 people gathered in Eleftheria Square and marched toward the Israeli Embassy.

The march, which featured Palestinian flags, saw participation from Palestinian residents in Greece, members of Muslim communities, as well as left-wing and anarchist groups.

Demonstrators carried signs with "Freedom for Palestine" and "No to the siege of Palestine."

They concluded the protest in front of the Israeli Embassy, and the event ended without any incidents.

More than 423,000 Palestinians have been displaced in Gaza since Oct. 7, with 270,000 having taken refuge in United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine in the Near East facilities amid continued Israeli airstrikes, according to the UN.