Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protests and memorial events were held across Europe, North Africa, and Asia on the eve of the first anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel. Thousands gathered in various cities, with rallies in Europe, including Berlin, Paris, and Rome on Saturday and memorial events in Paris, London, and Brasilia on Sunday.
In Berlin, pro-Israeli demonstrators marched with banners and flags, while in Paris and London, crowds chanted for the return of hostages held by Hamas. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations were also held in Morocco, Pakistan, and Australia, with concerns of potential terror attacks in major cities in Europe.
Heightened security alerts were issued in several countries, including Italy, where clashes between protesters and police occurred in Rome. Pope Francis called for peace and a day of prayer and fasting on the anniversary. The risk of regional escalation remains, with ongoing conflict between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah.