Protests in Berlin and Milan Against Israeli Attacks on Gaza and Lebanon

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Berlin, Germany, and Milan, Italy, as protesters marched to express solidarity with Palestine and condemn Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

In Berlin, thousands of demonstrators gathered at the Brandenburg Gate to demand an end to what they described as the genocide in Gaza. The rally, which was called by the far-left BSW party, also included demands for a halt to arms deliveries to Ukraine.

Berlin Demonstration Details

Police figures estimated that approximately 12,000 people participated in the Berlin rally. However, the BSW party provided a higher estimate, stating that 20,000 people attended, which would make it one of the largest pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Germany in recent months.

Participants at the event called for a complete cessation of German arms sales to Israel. Marie Atwan, a 20-year-old student from Hamburg, stated that failing to ban these weapons sales is equivalent to supporting the genocide in Gaza.

The rally featured speakers, including German rapper Massiv, also known as Wasim Taha, who spoke from a stage during the event titled Stop the genocide in Gaza! No weapons in war zones! Peace instead of arms race!

Other attendees expressed distress over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Elit Hadilovic, 22, noted that innocent children in the region are dying and suffering from hunger.

German Government Policy and Arms Embargo

The protests occur against a backdrop of shifting German policy regarding military exports. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced in August that Berlin, which serves as Israel’s second largest arms supplier, had suspended the sale of weapons that could be utilized in the war against Hamas in Gaza.

The decision to implement the arms embargo followed broad condemnation across Europe after the Israeli security cabinet approved a plan to conquer Gaza City in October.

International Context and Milan Protests

Simultaneous protests were held in Milan, Italy, where hundreds of people marched in solidarity with Palestine. These demonstrators specifically targeted Israeli attacks in both Gaza and Lebanon.

These events are part of a broader global movement of protests, demonstrations, and vigils that began in October 2023 following the Hamas-led attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli bombardment and invasion of the Gaza Strip.

According to global records, the goals of these international protests vary but frequently include:

• Calls for a ceasefire and an end to the war.
• Demands for the lifting of the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.
• Protests against the humanitarian crisis and the death of civilians.
• Demands for the freeing of hostages.
• Calls for an end to the Israeli occupation and the genocide.
• Support for Palestinian rights and the delivery of humanitarian aid.