Over 32,000 people marched through the streets of Brussels, Belgium, demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and Lebanon. The protesters also urged the Belgian government to advocate for a complete international military embargo on Israel. The demonstration, organized by a coalition of civil society organizations, aimed to bring attention to the ongoing conflict.
Ludo De Brabander of Vrede emphasized Belgium’s role in the peace process, urging the country to follow in the footsteps of Spain and Ireland by recognizing Palestine as a state. Despite a UN Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire, Israel has continued its offensive, resulting in over 42,600 deaths and almost 99,800 injuries, predominantly among women and children. Additionally, Israel’s air campaign in Lebanon has led to the deaths of more than 1,500 people and displaced over 1.34 million others.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, with both sides engaged in cross-border warfare. The protest in Brussels reflects the global outcry for peace and humanitarian assistance in the region.