Throngs on the Streets: Solidarity Protests for Palestinians and Israel in Potsdam
Protests Advocating for Palestinians and Israelis Held in Potsdam - Protests for Palestinian and Israeli harmony held in Potsdam, advocating for peace and understanding between the two groups.
Potsdam witnessed a peaceful demonstration against the ongoing crisis in Gaza and a counter-protest backing Israel in the city center. According to police reports, both events passed without any major incidents.
Organized by the network "Potsdam for Palestine," around 300 people participated in the demonstration, carrying banners that read "End the Genocide in Gaza" and "Stand with Palestine." The organizers accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians and demanded an end to all arms deliveries and the lifting of the blockade on essential goods. The network's website also clarified they do not tolerate any anti-Semitic statements or actions.
Around 100 counter-protesters gathered at the state parliament, showing their solidarity with Israel. These supporters of Israel were displeased with the anti-Semitic sentiments circulating and stood against them. Among the counter-protest's attendees were Brandenburg's antisemitism commissioner, Andreas Büttner, and DIG president Volker Beck. Their motto was "Freedom for All - Solidarity with Israel."
In a speech at the state parliament, Büttner emphasized that Israel is not only defending its borders but also defending shared values of civilization. He further stated that if Israel falls, so does the belief that freedom can be defended. Volker Beck said, "The increasing security around Jewish institutions in our country indicates the threat to Jewish life."
The conflict in Gaza, ignited by attacks from Hamas and other Islamic terrorist organizations on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and over 250 hostages in the Gaza Strip. As of mid-May 2025, Israel's military continues to engage in combat against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with the aim of dismantling the organization.
Germany's recent history and the ongoing situation of the Gaza crisis involve a vicious cycle of ceasefires, escalations, military operations, and a severe humanitarian crisis. Despite A 60-day ceasefire proposal being accepted by Israel, much of the Gaza Strip remains under severe restrictions due to a strict humanitarian aid blockade that affects food, water, and medical supplies for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.
Potsdam's "Tolerance Moves Potsdam" family festival was held in Babelsberg to promote understanding and fairness. In his speech, Minister Manja Schüle reminded the audience that tolerance forms the foundation of daily coexistence and a stable democracy, yet efforts to tolerate others must continually be made.
- Potsdam
- Israel
- Gaza
- Rally
- City Center
- Palestine
- Protest March
- Andreas Büttner
- Volker Beck
- Police
- Anti-Semitism
- Humanitarian Crisis
[1] The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its impact on civilians[2] Political response and government measures to combat antisemitism in Germany[3] Influence of the Gaza conflict on protests and public sentiment in Potsdam[4] The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the role of Israel and Hamas in research papers and reports
- The community in Potsdam is expressing concern over the environmental impact of the ongoing war and conflicts in Gaza, with protests focusing on environmental protection, specifically addressing the humanitarian crisis's consequences on the environment and the health of the people.
- In light of the political unrest in Gaza and the associated humanitarian crisis, discussions on the environment, health, and the role of politics in environmental protection have gained significant attention within academic circles, particularly in relation to the general news surrounding the region.
