Protests Against Israel’s Gaza War Continue Across Europe and Beyond
Mass demonstrations denouncing Israel’s military actions in Gaza have taken place across Europe and the Middle East, reflecting widespread international concern over the ongoing conflict. Protests have been particularly notable in the Netherlands and Turkey, with hundreds of thousands participating in calls for a ceasefire and an end to what protesters describe as a “genocide.”
Large-Scale Demonstrations in Europe
On October 5, 2025, approximately 250,000 people gathered in Amsterdam’s Museum Square, marching through the city center to protest against Israel’s two-year war on Gaza. Al Jazeera reported that demonstrators, many draped in Palestinian flags, urged the Dutch government to grab a stronger stance against Israel and halt arms exports.
Marieke van Zijl, a protester, told the Associated Press that the demonstration was motivated by a perceived lack of strong action from the Dutch government. “The bloodshed must stop – and that we unfortunately have to stand here because we have such an incredibly weak government that doesn’t dare to draw a red line,” she said.
The protest occurred less than a month before national elections in the Netherlands, adding political pressure on Dutch leaders who have historically supported Israel. Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel indicated on Friday that approving the export of F-35 jet parts to Israel was “unlikely” given the growing public discontent. Al Jazeera
Amnesty International, an organizer of the protest, called on European governments to use “all economic and diplomatic means” to increase pressure on Israel. Al Jazeera
Protests in Turkey and Beyond
Thousands of Turkish citizens also participated in a rally in Istanbul, Turkey, on October 5, 2025, to express solidarity with Palestinians and protest against the situation in Gaza. Al Jazeera reported that the demonstrations were part of a broader wave of protests across Europe and the Middle East.
Previous Tensions in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has experienced previous tensions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In November 2024, riots erupted before and after a UEFA Europa League football match between Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv F.C. And Dutch club AFC Ajax. Wikipedia reports that seven people were hospitalized and 20-30 sustained injuries during clashes between fans and pro-Palestinian protesters.
The November 2024 riots involved incidents of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans allegedly pulling down Palestinian flags, making anti-Arab chants, and vandalizing property. Wikipedia Subsequent plans to attack Israeli fans were shared through messaging apps, leading to further clashes after the match. Amsterdam’s mayor, Femke Halsema, condemned the attacks on Israeli fans as antisemitic. Wikipedia
Ongoing Conflict and International Response
As of October 5, 2025, Israel’s war on Gaza had reportedly killed more than 67,000 Palestinians and left the enclave facing famine. Al Jazeera The widespread protests reflect growing international pressure for a resolution to the conflict and increased humanitarian aid for Gaza.