Despite the ban by the State Police, dozens of citizens gathered today in "Skënderbej" Square in a solidarity rally with the Palestinian people, raising their voices against the bombing and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
The protest began at around 6:30 PM, under the motto “From Tirana to Gaza, the voice of freedom does not stop,” a call that dominated the banners and chants of the participants. Amidst Palestinian flags and photos of victims, citizens demanded an end to the violence and urgent aid for the civilian population under constant siege.
Although the organizers claim to have obtained permission to hold the rally, the police intervened, attempting to disperse the protest and prohibiting the use of Palestinian symbols. In some cases, the protesters refused to leave, confronting the security forces peacefully.
The rally was also motivated by the recent killing of a team of Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza, which added to the indignation among citizens. “Freedom of speech is not bombed” and “260 journalists killed, who is responsible?” were among the most heard slogans.
According to international sources, since July 23 – the date of the previous protest in Tirana – over 1,600 people have been killed in Gaza, including a significant number of children. Since the beginning of the conflict, 260 journalists have been confirmed killed.
Protest organizers warn that they will continue with other awareness-raising activities, despite pressure or bans. "Solidarity is not a crime," they told the media.
The event has reopened the discussion about the right to free assembly and expression in the country, especially when it comes to international humanitarian causes.
