The protest took place near EU institutions and brought together activists, human rights campaigners and members of a recent Gaza-bound flotilla. Participants argued that the bloc should use its economic influence to increase pressure on Israel amid continuing tensions linked to the war in Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The demonstration was organised by the human rights group Avaaz and included Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Protesters carried signs reading “EU, stop buying what Israel steals” and demanded restrictions on imports such as dates, avocados and other agricultural products originating from settlements.