Thousands Rally in Amsterdam for Palestinian Solidarity

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Amsterdam’s Dam Square was once again filled with Palestinian flags and chants as protesters gathered to show solidarity with Gaza amid renewed Israeli attacks. The demonstration took place during the annual rally on the International Day Against Racism and Discrimination, organized by more than 200 groups.

Among the protesters was Angelique Aper, a former Dutch civil servant who resigned in protest against her government’s support for Israel. “The situation in Gaza is on my mind, especially what has happened this week,” she said. “Despite the violence, diplomatic, political, and economic relations with Israel continue as usual. The double standards are clear.”

The UN established the International Day Against Racism in the 1960s following the Sharpeville massacre in South Africa under apartheid rule. Organizers of the Amsterdam rally emphasized that with the far right gaining influence across Europe, including in the Netherlands, it is crucial to stand against racism and discrimination.

“We want to show that the Netherlands will remain a democracy that upholds the rule of law,” one organizer stated. “We will not tolerate divisive politics, and we demand that the government resign.”

Protesters also highlighted concerns over the Dutch government’s strict immigration policies. One undocumented participant shared their fears: “I worry every day. The government treats us differently, but we are all the same.”

Beyond Amsterdam, similar protests took place in France, where thousands marched in Paris and Marseille. Demonstrators expressed concern over the rise of far-right politics and Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza.

The large turnout in Amsterdam reflected growing public frustration—not just over the Palestinian crisis, but also over broader issues of racism and threats to democracy.

News source- Al Jazeera