Tens of thousands expected in Brussels for Gaza protest
The Belgian capital is once again the setting for a large pro-Palestinian demonstration, with thousands of people joining the second “Red Line for Gaza” march. The organisers are calling for an end to what they describe as the complicity of governments, institutions and businesses in “the crimes of the Israeli regime”. Police expect around 70,000 participants.
Protesters gathered at Brussels North Station before marching towards Jean Rey Square, near the EU institutions. Participants have been urged to carry red cards as a symbolic gesture aimed at politicians and companies accused of enabling war crimes.
The coalition behind the march includes the peace group Vrede vzw and the National Coalition for Gaza. They are demanding a full military embargo on Israel, an end to the arms trade and a ban on all investments or partnerships that sustain the occupation. "The Belgian government must go beyond symbolic gestures and adopt concrete, comprehensive measures," said the Palestinian collective Beitna.
The march is supported by more than 200 organisations, including major NGOs, trade unions, Jewish and Palestinian associations, faith groups, and cultural organisations. A previous edition of the march attracted an estimated 100,000 demonstrators.
Further updates on today's protest will follow later.
© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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