Hundreds of protesters gathered in central Stockholm to demonstrate against Israeli military operations in the Palestinian territories and Lebanon, calling for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict and a halt to Sweden’s arms sales to Israel.
The rally, organized by several civil society groups at Odenplan Square, condemned what participants described as attacks in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and Lebanon. Demonstrators held placards highlighting civilian suffering, including messages about children killed, destruction of schools and hospitals, and worsening food shortages.
Participants urged Israel to stop its military actions in Gaza and pressed the Swedish government to end weapons exports linked to the conflict. A group of Iranian demonstrators also joined the rally, expressing opposition to both US and Israeli policies in the region.
One Swedish activist of Azerbaijani origin, Aydin Amir Hashimi, argued that Israel’s actions would not be possible without support from Western governments. He said Western countries contribute through political, legal, and logistical backing, and accused them of suppressing pro-Palestinian movements domestically.
Hashimi also claimed that criticism or boycott campaigns against Israel face restrictions in some parts of the United States. He vowed that activists in Sweden would resist similar policies and continue advocating for Palestinian rights despite pressure and threats.
Organizers emphasized that, regardless of challenges, solidarity with Palestinians would continue and public demonstrations would remain active.
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