Protesters rallied outside Israel’s embassy in Lisbon on Thursday, waving Palestinian flags and chanting against the blockade of Gaza.
Smaller demonstrations were also held in Spain, including outside the foreign ministry in Madrid and in the Basque city of Bilbao.
The protests were sparked by the interception of a flotilla of 51 boats carrying activists from multiple countries, among them four Portuguese nationals.
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The flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona in late August, aimed to challenge Israel’s months-long blockade of Gaza and carried symbolic humanitarian aid.
Israeli naval forces stopped the vessels in international waters about 70 nautical miles from the coasts of Israel and Gaza on Wednesday night. Authorities in Tel Aviv said the action was necessary to prevent activists from entering an active conflict zone.
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The operation, which blocked about 40 boats carrying more than 400 participants, drew swift condemnation and triggered solidarity protests in several European cities, further intensifying pressure over Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
