Massive Palestinian flags adorn campuses throughout Spain as numerous students rally against Israel’s conflict in Gaza. This week, protests in Barcelona, Valencia, the Basque Country, and Madrid have disrupted classes.
Protests in solidarity with Palestine have spread across Europe, with university sit-ins occurring in countries like the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Finland, Denmark, and Germany. These demonstrations echo those of their counterparts in the United States, who are facing aggressive police responses.
In Amsterdam, police arrested approximately 125 activists while dismantling a pro-Palestinian camp at the University of Amsterdam, citing the need to “restore order” after protests escalated. However, no injuries were reported. Video footage broadcast by national broadcaster NOS depicted the use of heavy machinery to dismantle barricades and tents.
In Spain, where there is a long history of support for the Palestinian cause, police have refrained from intervening in the protests. Maria Angeles Lopez, a 21-year-old psychology student at the University of Barcelona, emphasized the importance of showing solidarity and taking a stance against the situation in Gaza and Israel’s actions. She expressed hope that widespread student opposition could influence those in power to reconsider their policies.
In numerous Spanish universities where protests have erupted, over 2,000 lecturers have voiced their support for the demonstrations.
