Tens of thousands of citizens, trade unions, youth organisations, cultural entities, and various other groups are gathering in Brussels on Sunday to draw a symbolic red line against the alleged “genocide” perpetrated by Israel in Gaza and against the Palestinian people.
The demonstration is organised by the International Solidarity coalition 11.11.11. Official figures from the police on participant count are still awaited, but the group claims 100,000 demonstrators.
The protest began at 14:45 at the Brussels North Station and is set to proceed towards Jean Rey Square near the European district, with the arrival expected around 17:00. Participants will don red clothing as a symbolic gesture against what they describe as Israel’s genocidal actions in Gaza.
Before the march commenced, well-known personalities, including Koen Wauters, Tamino, and rapper Zwangere Guy, performed. Dallila Hermans also spoke, and a video message was livestreamed from Gaza itself, emphasising the message: “Enough is enough,” according to 11.11.11.
11.11.11, alongside various other organisations joining the protest, aims to persuade policymakers in Belgium and the EU to take a stand against Israel. The NGO asserts that, for now, the response has been limited to words, with actions yet to follow. Zwangere Guy summarised the sentiment forcefully during his performance: “Politicians, wake up – fools!”
Among the groups supporting the Red Line protest are not only 11.11.11 itself but many groups. Among them: Amnesty International, CNCD-11.11.11, Beweging.net, Saamo, Palestina Solidariteit, VIERNULVIER, Vredesactie, Vrouwenraad, Broeders van Liefde vzw, AB Concerts, ABVV-FGTB, ACV-CSC, Club Wintercircus, De Ambrassade, De Roma, Scouts & Gidsen Vlaanderen, STUK, as well as others.
