Berlin, Germany - October 05, 2024

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Berlin's Platz der Luftbruecke to protest police violence and restrictions on public dissent. Marching under the banner "One Year of Genocide – And the World Watches. Against Police Violence," the crowd voiced anger over what they called heavy-handed police tactics at previous pro-Palestinian protests. Protesters alleged that authorities have used excessive force during recent demonstrations, with some minors reportedly arrested. While acknowledging the general role of police in maintaining order, participants criticized what they described as disproportionate reactions during pro-Palestinian rallies, further fueling public outrage. The demonstration follows a recent series of police raids in Berlin targeting pro-Palestinian activists, raising concerns about the suppression of free speech and assembly. Some protesters reported receiving warnings from the police threatening fines for attending. "We've had enough," a speaker said. "In Gaza and Lebanon, we are bombed by Israel, and in Germany, we are criminalized by the police. We are tired of constantly experiencing anti-Muslim racism."ӃӈSoundbite with a protester, first name Monir, at the protest:Ԋ“We are protesting against the massacre that the Israeli army has carried out against the civilian population in Lebanon, Palestine, and Gaza, as well as in the West Bank and Syria, and we want the public to be aware of it. We appeal to the German government to also see the other side, not just supporting Israel but also recognizing the suffering of the Palestinians. If the German government remains neutral, that would be fair. That way, both sides can be considered, instead of one-sided support.