Why it matters:
The rally highlights sustained public opposition in Europe, particularly in the U.K., to Western support for Israel, underscoring growing pressure on governments accused of complicity in the Gaza war.
The big picture:
Since the outbreak of the Gaza war, London has emerged as a key hub for weekly mass demonstrations backing Palestinian rights. The latest march reflects a broader global movement opposing Israel’s military campaign and criticizing Washington’s role in the region.
What they’re saying:
Among the crowd, placards bearing images of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei carried a quote attributed to him:
“Choose the right side of history.”
Protesters holding Iranian flags echoed slogans condemning what they described as Washington’s interventionist policies in West Asia.
Key points:
- Demonstrators waved flags of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Palestine.
- Protesters demanded an immediate end to Western political and military support for the Israeli regime.
- Chants focused on condemning U.S. policies and their impact on regional instability.
- The rally marked the 34th nationwide protest in London since the Gaza war began.
State of play
The demonstration was organized with the support of the Islamic Human Rights Commission, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the Stop the War Coalition, and several human rights and anti-war organizations.
Zoom in
The protest began with a gathering at Russell Square, followed by a march through the streets of central London, culminating near the U.K. prime minister’s office, drawing significant public and media attention.
Bottom line
Months into the Gaza war, large-scale protests in London show no sign of fading, signaling persistent grassroots resistance to U.K. and U.S. policies toward Israel.
Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian
