Protest in Prishtina Demands Solidarity with Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict

In Prishtina, passionate pleas rise against the backdrop of historical scars, as Kosovars demand global action for Palestinians while recalling their own past struggles against oppression.

In the heart of Kosovo's capital, Prishtina, a significant crowd amassed on October 28, standing firmly in solidarity with Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The demonstration, organised by 'Kolektivi Feminist', was marked by passionate appeals and striking visuals, all advocating for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Genti Behramaj, a lead activist at the helm of the event, delivered a poignant statement detailing the adversities faced by the Palestinians and emphasizing the critical role the international community must play in bringing peace to the beleaguered region.

Activist Genti Behramaj read a statement at a protest in Prishtina, Kosovo on Saturday, Oct 28, 2023. The event was organized by 'Kolektivi Feminist' to show solidarity with the Palestinian people. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

While underscoring the longstanding 75-year occupation of Palestine by Israel, Behramaj presented grim statistics: over the past three weeks, more than 7,000 Palestinians have met their demise, with about 3,000 of these being children. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with the health system on the brink of collapse, pregnant women giving birth amidst bombings, and a population of over 2 million grappling with a severe blockade that's cut off essential supplies.

Despite its close ties and support for Israel, Kosovo has expressed its reservations on the conflict. While the nation aligns with Israel's strategic positioning, it vehemently condemns the loss of civilian lives on both sides.

"As a nation that has known the horrors of war and genocide, having faced Serbian genocidal policies a mere 24 years ago, our sympathies lie with every innocent life lost," both President and PM tweeted.

Behramaj’s address further clarified the group's stance, condemning the actions of Hamas while also criticizing the use of the Holocaust and historical Jewish persecution as justifications for current policies. He highlighted the movement's alignment with Israeli civilians and Jews worldwide who are rallying against the occupation of Palestine.

Closing his statement, Behramaj listed a series of demands in response to the call from the Palestinian Youth Movement, urging the Kosovo government and global actors to re-evaluate their stances. The call was clear: an immediate ceasefire, unfettered routes for humanitarian aid, restoration of essential services to Gaza, an end to Israel's apartheid policies, and accountability for war crimes from both Israel and Hamas.

As the crowd dispersed, the message from Prishtina was unmistakable — a plea for humanity and a call for decisive action to end the suffering of Palestinian civilians.