Geneva Police Deploy Tear Gas, Water Cannons at Gaza Protest

Police in Geneva used tear gas and water cannons to disperse a large protest on Thursday. The demonstration was in support of a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza. Eyewitnesses reported a burning sensation and difficulty breathing.

Such confrontations are rare in Switzerland. A police spokesperson confirmed the use of control measures. The protest involved an estimated 3,000 people.

Confrontation Follows Israeli Flotilla Interception

The protest was triggered by Israel’s interception of a civilian flotilla. The flotilla carried aid and over 400 activists. According to Reuters, Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg was among the participants.

Eyewitnesses described a large plume of white tear gas smoke. Video evidence also showed a water cannon vehicle spraying protesters. The Geneva police spokesperson said the measures were a response to projectiles being thrown.

Rare Scene of Unrest in Swiss City

The scale of the police response is unusual for Geneva. A police spokesperson acknowledged that such measures are not commonplace. Pro-Gaza protests have been gaining momentum in the country recently.

The event highlights the international fallout from the flotilla incident. Similar protests were reported in other European cities and in Colombia. The situation remains a point of international focus.

The Geneva protest marks a significant escalation in local demonstrations. Police use of crowd control measures underscores the event’s intensity. This incident will likely influence future public demonstrations in the region.

Thought you’d like to know

What sparked the protest in Geneva?

The protest was in response to Israel’s interception of a civilian aid flotilla headed for Gaza. The flotilla carried activists and humanitarian supplies. Demonstrators gathered to show solidarity with the mission.

How many people were at the protest?

Geneva police estimated the crowd size at around 3,000 people. The spokesperson described the participants as mostly adults and young men. The protest was one of the larger recent gatherings in the city.

Was anyone injured during the police action?

The report from Reuters did not specify any injury totals. Eyewitnesses described physical effects from the tear gas, including burning eyes. Property damage was reported from objects thrown by protesters.

Are protests like this common in Switzerland?

Such confrontations are considered rare for Switzerland. A police official stated it is not every day they need such control measures. However, pro-Gaza demonstrations have been increasing in frequency.

Who was involved in the flotilla?

The flotilla included over 400 foreign activists and around 40 boats. Some Swiss nationals were among the participants. Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg was also reported to be involved.