Pro-Palestinian Rally in Athens: Demonstrators Voice Solidarity Amidst Escalating Conflict

In a show of solidarity with Palestinians in the ongoing conflict with Israel, more than 300 demonstrators, brandishing Palestinian flags and banners declaring "Hands off Rafah!", gathered outside the parliament building in Athens, Greece. The rally, held on Tuesday, was marked by clashes between protesters and police in central Athens.

Tensions escalated as police attempted to disperse a group of protesters who had scaled the gate of the Egyptian embassy across from the parliament, resulting in a brief confrontation.

Tensions escalated as police attempted to disperse a group of protesters who had scaled the gate of the Egyptian embassy across from the parliament, resulting in a brief confrontation.

The demonstration comes in the wake of heightened violence, with the Israeli military conducting ground and air operations in eastern Rafah, Gaza Strip. According to Gaza's health ministry, the conflict, now in its seventh month, has resulted in the deaths of at least 34,789 Palestinians and the injury of 78,204 others.

The war, initiated by Hamas terrorists' attacks on Israel on October 7, has claimed approximately 1,200 lives, with around 250 individuals abducted, 133 of whom are believed to be held captive in Hamas-controlled Gaza, according to Israeli reports.

Despite Hamas announcing its acceptance of a ceasefire proposal on Monday, Israel proceeded with strikes in Rafah, citing inadequate terms. The Israeli military aims to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities through these operations.

Rafah, a crucial lifeline for Gaza's 2.3 million Palestinians, has facilitated the transportation of humanitarian aid and patients during severe shortages and the destruction of healthcare infrastructure throughout the conflict.