Barcelona Pro-Palestinian Protest Injures 20 Officers, 8 Arrested

Tens of thousands of people across Spain, including approximately 70,000 in Barcelona and 92,000 in Madrid, participated in pro-Palestinian protests condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the detention of activists from the Freedom Flotilla attempting to breach the Gaza blockade. While the marches began largely peaceful, violent clashes erupted in Barcelona and Madrid, resulting in 20 police officers injured, eight protesters arrested, and damage to stores accused of ties to Israel. Spanish authorities reported heightened security measures ahead of anticipated further demonstrations, reflecting escalating tensions. The protests coincided with Spain's diplomatic efforts to secure the release of 21 of the 49 Spanish nationals detained aboard the flotilla, who are expected to return from Tel Aviv. Spain, which recognized a Palestinian state in 2024, has taken a firm stance against Israeli military operations, recently banning shipments of weapons and military fuel to Israel. Similar solidarity protests also occurred in other European cities such as Rome and Lisbon, amplifying calls for an end to hostilities in Gaza and increased humanitarian access.