Berlin police commenced the dismantling of a pro-Palestinian encampment outside the parliamentary building, as activists demanded the German government halt arms exports to Israel and address what they claim is the criminalization of Palestinian solidarity movements, according to Sky News.
The police removed tents and forcibly dispersed demonstrators, sealing off the surrounding area to prevent further protesters from entering.
This police action comes amidst clashes between demonstrators and police on American university campuses and protests at Sciences Po in Paris, part of global protests condemning Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and Western support for Israel.
Activists established the camp on April 8, coinciding with the International Court of Justice’s hearing of a lawsuit filed by Nicaragua against Germany over Berlin’s military aid to Israel.
Jara Nassar, the organizer of the camp, told Reuters, “The idea was to draw attention to German complicity and active facilitation of what he called Israeli genocide in Gaza.”
Israel vehemently denies allegations that its assault on Gaza constitutes genocide.
Nassar and dozens of protesters sat on the ground, chanting slogans and singing songs in support of Palestine, as police used loudspeakers to order them to leave.
This removal operation reflects ongoing tensions and the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the international dimensions of local protests.
