Massive Protests Erupt in Berlin Against German Support for Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
On September 28, 2025, Berlin witnessed a significant demonstration as over 100,000 people took to the streets to voice their opposition to the German government’s support for Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This rally, dubbed “All Eyes on Gaza – Stop the Genocide,” was organized by a coalition of approximately 50 groups, including pro-Palestinian organizations, Medico International, Amnesty International, and the opposition Left Party. The event underscores a growing discontent among the German populace regarding the government’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
A Call for Action
The demonstrators marched from Berlin’s City Hall to the Grosser Stern, carrying banners and chanting slogans such as “Free, free Palestine” and “Viva Palestine.” Many held signs demanding an end to what they termed “genocide” in Gaza, with messages like “Stop the genocide in Gaza” and “Freedom for Palestine.” The rally’s organizers emphasized the need for Germany to cease its military cooperation with Israel, which they argue contributes to the ongoing violence in the region.
In a statement, the organizers highlighted that the actions of the Israeli government have been characterized as genocide by various experts and international organizations. They pointed out that the International Court of Justice is currently investigating these claims. Despite this, they criticized the German government for denying the systematic violence occurring in Gaza.
Public Sentiment Shifts
The protest comes at a time when public opinion in Germany is increasingly critical of the government’s support for Israel. A recent survey conducted by YouGov revealed that 62% of German voters believe that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide. This sentiment spans across political affiliations, with 60% of voters from the center-right CDU/CSU bloc sharing this view, and an even higher percentage of 71% among supporters of the coalition partner Social Democratic Party (SPD).
This shift in public opinion is significant, especially considering Germany’s historical context. The country has long grappled with its past, particularly its role in World War II and the Holocaust. As a result, many Germans feel a moral obligation to advocate for human rights and justice, making the current situation in Gaza particularly poignant.
Government Response
In response to the mounting pressure from the public, Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul have recently intensified their criticism of Israel’s military actions and the blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, they have refrained from using the term “genocide,” opting instead to describe Israel’s military campaign as “disproportionate.” This reluctance to adopt stronger language reflects the complexities of international relations and the historical ties between Germany and Israel.
Despite calls from the public and various organizations for Germany to recognize the State of Palestine, the government has yet to take this step. Other nations, including France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, have recently moved towards recognizing Palestinian statehood, putting additional pressure on Germany to reassess its position.
Historical Context
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical roots, dating back to the early 20th century. The establishment of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, a situation that has fueled decades of violence and unrest. The Gaza Strip, in particular, has been a focal point of this conflict, with multiple military operations and blockades leading to significant humanitarian crises.
Germany’s support for Israel can be traced back to its post-World War II commitment to ensure the security of the Jewish state, a response to the atrocities of the Holocaust. However, as the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, many Germans are questioning whether this support should come at the expense of Palestinian rights.
The Role of Civil Society
The recent protests in Berlin highlight the role of civil society in shaping public discourse around international issues. Organizations like Amnesty International and Medico International have been instrumental in raising awareness about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Their involvement in the protest underscores the importance of advocacy in influencing government policy.
Moreover, the participation of diverse groups in the rally reflects a broader coalition of voices calling for justice and accountability. This unity among various organizations and political factions demonstrates a significant shift in the narrative surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within Germany.
Conclusion
The massive turnout in Berlin serves as a powerful reminder of the growing discontent among the German public regarding their government’s support for Israel in the context of the Gaza conflict. As public opinion shifts and calls for action intensify, the German government faces increasing pressure to reassess its stance. The historical context of Germany’s relationship with Israel adds layers of complexity to this issue, making it a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding human rights and international relations. The outcome of this situation will likely have lasting implications for both Germany and the broader geopolitical landscape.
