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Thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday in a fresh wave of pro-Palestinian protests, demanding an end to the war in Gaza and criticising the French government’s stance on the conflict.
The demonstrations were part of a global weekend of action organised by French trade unions, left-wing parties, and pro-Palestinian groups. The mobilisation came just a day after Israel launched a major barrage of strikes on Iran, heightening fears of a broader regional escalation.
In Paris, the largest protest saw 9,000 people according to police estimates, while organisers, including the CGT union and the France Unbowed (LFI) party, claimed a turnout of 150,000. Among the speakers was European Parliament member Rima Hassan, who urged civil disobedience and stronger action to uphold international law. Hassan was recently detained in Israel after attempting to breach the Gaza blockade by boat.
Many protesters voiced frustration with what they perceive as the French government’s muted criticism of Israel. Some described France as “complicit” in the ongoing military campaign, which resumed in full force after the collapse of a temporary ceasefire in March.
“We don’t want what is happening in Gaza to be silenced,” said Eve, a 63-year-old protester. “Every day we hear that 30, 60 people have died. It’s becoming routine, invisible—especially now with the situation in Iran.”
Marches also took place in other French cities including Marseille, Toulouse, and Rennes, drawing large crowds despite growing tensions in the wider Middle East.
The Israeli bombardment of Gaza, now nearing its 20th month, has killed tens of thousands, mostly children, and led to repeated, but so far fruitless, ceasefire talks. Israel continues to pursue its military objective of dismantling Hamas, the group behind the October 7, 2023 attacks.
