gaza flotilla — gaza flotilla — Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Nicosia to protest the Cypriot government’s perceived response following Israel’s seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla heading to Gaza. Organised by the Global Movement to Gaza Cyprus, United for Palestine, Far Right Watch Cyprus, and Genocide-Free Cyprus, the protest began at 6:30 pm, resulting in the closure of roads in front of the Ministry.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
The peaceful protest aimed to demand a stronger official response from the Cypriot government, but tensions escalated when anti-riot police intervened. Eyewitness reports and videos confirm that police sprayed participants and attempted to disperse the protest violently, with officers seen pushing demonstrators within the crowd.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Activists are calling on Cyprus to “abide by the ICJ ruling” and condemn Israel’s seizure of the flotilla, which comprised about 50 ships and over 500 activists from around the world. The protesters’ demands centre on the immediate release of the detained crew and adherence to international law regarding the situation in Gaza.
Chants echoed through the streets as protestors in Nicosia shouted slogans such as “Free Palestine,” “Stop the genocide,” and “From Cyprus to Palestine, occupation is a crime.” The flotilla’s interception in international waters on Wednesday has triggered global outcry, further fueling demonstrations across major cities worldwide, including Ankara, Mexico City, Bogota, Buenos Aires, and Madrid.
The mission is described by organisers as the largest humanitarian flotilla ever assembled, featuring parliamentarians, journalists, lawyers, and activists from Europe, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East. The Global Sumud Flotilla represents the latest attempt by pro-Palestinian activists to breach Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since 2007.
Lawyers aboard flotilla vessels have documented alleged violations of international humanitarian and marine law by Israeli forces, with cases poised for submission to the United Nations’ International Court of Justice, according to activists at sea. Palestine’s foreign ministry has condemned Israel’s “attack and aggression,” expressing grave concern for the safety of activists on board the vessels and emphasising that the flotilla is a “peaceful and civilian-led initiative aimed at breaking Israel’s inhumane and illegal blockade of the Gaza Strip.”
The protests in Nicosia reflect a growing discontent not only with the Israeli blockade of Gaza but also with the perceived inaction of international governments in addressing humanitarian crises. As the situation develops, the voices of those advocating for Palestinian rights continue to resonate across borders, uniting activists worldwide.
