Thousands gather at Amsterdam's Dam Square: "Against war in Gaza, but support Ukraine with weapons"
Thousands of protesters gathered at Dam Square in Amsterdam to demonstrate against rising militarization and the government's foreign policy. The event drew diverse participants, including those calling for an end to military support for Israel while others simultaneously advocated for continued arms shipments to Ukraine.
Approximately 3,000 demonstrators gathered at Dam Square in Amsterdam for the 'Stop the War Fever' protest. Organized by groups including the New Peace Movement, FNV Young & United, and the National Student Union, the event criticized the government's military spending and preparations. Speakers argued that militarization, fueled by NATO demands, is being financed by cutting social services and increasing taxes on workers. Participants also expressed strong opposition to military support for Israel regarding the conflict in Gaza, warning against the potential reintroduction of mandatory military service. During the event, counter-protesters from Ukraine and Moldova argued that diplomatic efforts are insufficient to end the war with Russia. They emphasized the necessity of supplying arms to Ukraine for survival, highlighting the complexity of geopolitical stances. The demonstration included speeches and performances by artists such as Eefje de Visser, followed by a march through the city center. Various organizations, including the SP and Extinction Rebellion, supported the call for shifting national priorities away from military expansion.
Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
