On the eve of the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel, pro-Palestinian demonstrations have erupted in cities across the globe. These protests come amidst escalating tensions and international condemnation of Israel's military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
The Israel-Gaza conflict, which has been ongoing since 1948, has seen a significant escalation in the past year. The Gaza Strip, one of the most densely populated areas in the world, has borne the brunt of Israel's military campaign. According to Gaza's health ministry, nearly 42,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, while the region has been devastated by the ongoing conflict.
Demonstrations were held in major cities including Jakarta, Istanbul, and Rabat. In Istanbul, thousands gathered to show support for Palestinians. One protester, Ahmet Unal, stated:
"We are here to support the Palestinian resistance"
The scale of these protests reflects the global impact of the conflict, which has prompted some of the largest demonstrations in recent years. In the United States, pro-Palestinian college campus encampments have been ongoing for weeks.
The conflict's roots trace back to the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which played a significant role in the creation of Israel. Since then, the region has witnessed multiple wars and intifadas, with the Six-Day War in 1967 significantly altering the geopolitical landscape.
In Paris, the Jewish community gathered to commemorate the victims of the October 7 attack, during which Hamas militants killed 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures. This attack led to Israel's subsequent military campaign against Hamas in Gaza.
The United States and other allies have supported Israel's right to self-defense. However, Israel has faced widespread international condemnation over its actions in Gaza and recent bombardment of Lebanon. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to numerous UN resolutions and peace initiatives, yet a resolution remains elusive.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that his government is acting to prevent a repeat of the October 7 assault. However, the Israeli settlement policy in the West Bank, considered illegal under international law, continues to be a point of contention.
Concerns have been raised about rising antisemitic and Islamophobic rhetoric in some protests and counter-protests related to the conflict. Rights advocates warn of increasing threats against Jews and Muslims worldwide.
The ongoing conflict has reignited discussions about the status of Jerusalem, the Palestinian refugee crisis (one of the longest-running in the world), and the potential for a two-state solution. The International Criminal Court has opened an investigation into alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
As the world marks this somber anniversary, the path to peace remains uncertain, with both sides entrenched in their positions and the international community struggling to find a lasting solution to this decades-long conflict.