London, March 23: Thousands of protesters took to the streets of London in response to the military attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel. Demonstrations erupted across Europe, reflecting growing opposition to the ongoing military actions.
In the British capital, a sea of demonstrators marched from Russell Square to Whitehall, waving banners and chanting against the attacks. Their voices echoed through central London as concerns over the escalating conflict became palpable.
During a rally, participants called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to foreign intervention in the Middle East. Mariam, a protester holding a sign that read “Stop the War on Iran,” criticized Washington’s actions, labeling them as an “Epic Failure” rather than the “Epic Fury” they claimed.
She stated, “No foreign intervention. Hands off the Middle East and stop the bombings. People have the right to live in peace. You cannot bring democracy by bombing people.”
Adrian, another protester from Birmingham, described the attacks on Iran as “completely shameful” and “clearly exhausting.” He warned that the consequences, such as rising oil prices and global insecurity, are already being felt.
This demonstration in London was part of a larger wave of protests across Europe, showcasing the increasing dissent against military actions.
In Spain, thousands gathered in Madrid, where officials estimated around 4,000 participants. Protesters marched from Atocha to Puerta del Sol, carrying signs with slogans like “No to War, No to NATO” and “Spain is Not the US.” Podemos party leaders, including Secretary General Ione Belarra and Political Secretary Irene Montero, joined the rally, with Montero calling for Spain to exit NATO and criticizing Western military policies in the region.
Other European cities also witnessed protests. In Lisbon, hundreds gathered near the US embassy on March 14, organized by the Portuguese Peace and Cooperation Council. Supported by over 70 organizations, participants condemned the alleged aggression of the US and Israel, chanting slogans like “Yes to Peace, No to War” and demanding disarmament.
In Sofia, hundreds marched on March 2, holding signs that read “No War Against Iran” and “US Military Aircraft Not Welcome Here.” Protesters demanded an end to the attacks and the removal of US military planes from Bulgaria.
Similar demonstrations occurred in several countries, including France and Greece, as the conflict entered its third week.
Amid public dissent, European analysts have also voiced criticism. Professor Rob Devic from Leiden University in the Netherlands described US actions as “direct blackmail,” warning that they pose risks to European security. He argued that Europe should reduce its dependence on the US and strengthen its strategic autonomy.
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