Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in central London on Saturday, urging global pressure to ensure the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, set to begin Sunday morning, remains intact. The ceasefire agreement includes the release of hostages on both sides, Israeli withdrawal from densely populated Gaza areas, and increased humanitarian aid to the region devastated by weeks of conflict.
Demonstrators Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid
The rally, held in Whitehall near key British government offices, brought together activists calling for an end to violence in Gaza. Protesters carried placards reading “Stop arming Israel” and “Gaza, stop the massacre,” while chanting slogans such as “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.”
Sophie Mason, a regular attendee of pro-Palestinian demonstrations in London, expressed cautious optimism about the truce. “We desperately want to be optimistic, but we need to be out on the streets to make sure the ceasefire holds,” said Mason.
Others voiced concerns about the adequacy of the agreement. “The ceasefire is too late and too little,” said Anisah Qausher, a student. “We need to do a lot more, especially for rebuilding Gaza.”
Arrests and Counter-Demonstrations
The Metropolitan Police reported arrests during the rally, with 20-30 individuals detained for breaching the authorized protest perimeter and seven others arrested for various offences. A nearby counter-demonstration of about 100 people waved Israeli flags in support of Israel.
War’s Toll and Ceasefire Details
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, has claimed the lives of over 1,200 people in Israel and left 94 hostages still in Gaza, according to Israeli military data. The ceasefire agreement marks a pivotal moment in the war, aiming to ease tensions and facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries.
