Massive Protest in Lisbon Demands End to Conflict
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Lisbon this Sunday to call for peace in Palestine and the enforcement of a ceasefire. The protest, organized by the Platform for United Solidarity with Palestine (PUSP), saw a massive turnout stretching from Rossio to Rua da Prata.
Voices from the March
Chants like "In every city, on every corner, we are all Palestine," "Long live the struggle of the Palestinian people, Israel is a murderous state," and "Down with Zionism, it will fall" echoed through the streets as groups sought to draw attention to the occupation.
Jonathan Bebebgui, from the Jews for Peace movement, emphasized that the issue is not about anti-Semitism but about opposing what he called "colonialism." He stated, "Despite the genocide that has been happening, it's good to see a global reaction worldwide, and we believe this will continue until Palestine is free."
Solidarity Across Society
The presence of many citizens who had never participated in such actions before highlighted the solidarity of the Portuguese people. João Antunes from Doctors Without Borders, part of the organizing group, welcomed the strong support, noting the precarious nature of the ceasefire and ongoing instability in the territory.
He shared challenges faced by NGOs, such as restrictions on humanitarian aid: "We had four trucks, and only two were allowed in." Antunes stressed the need for aid to enter without constraints, as "the suffering of people has not ended."
International Pressure and Hope for Change
Jonathan Bebebgui argued that change must come from international civil society through actions like boycotts, citing significant brainwashing in Israel and controlled public opinion. He believes that global pressure is crucial for a resolution.
Maria dos Santos, an anonymous participant holding a banner from Amnesty International, expressed her motivation: "I didn't know about this, I don't even have a Palestinian scarf, but I saw these people at Rossio and wanted to be with them. To do something."
She added, "I'm not political, I don't like politics. But what's happening in Palestine is a shame for all of us."
The Role of Civil Society
The protest underscored the belief that civil society's pressure can make a difference, with participants urging for an end to occupation and oppression, emphasizing that a ceasefire alone is not enough for lasting peace.
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