Hundreds of Protesters in Spain Mimic Gaza’s Mass Casualties Outside Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum

In a powerful and symbolic act of protest, hundreds of demonstrators filled the streets outside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, lying down to mimic the mass casualties resulting from Israel's war on Gaza. This striking visual demonstration aimed to draw global attention to the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and to evoke empathy and action from the international community.

Bilbao, a city in northern Spain, holds a significant historical context for such a protest. During the Spanish Civil War, Bilbao was besieged and bombed, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. The city's own tragic history of conflict and suffering provided a poignant backdrop for the demonstration, creating a powerful parallel between past and present atrocities.

Why This Matters: In a significant development, Spain has announced its decision to join South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel, accusing it of violating its obligations under the Genocide Convention in its war on the Gaza Strip. The announcement was made on Thursday by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares during a news conference.

"We made this decision in light of the continuation of the military operation in Gaza," Albares stated. He expressed Spain's "enormous concern" over the regional extension of the conflict and emphasized the country's commitment to international law. "Our sole goal is to put an end to the war and to advance on the road of applying the two-state solution," Albares added.

This decision comes amid widespread protests in Bilbao, a city in northern Spain that was besieged and bombed during the Spanish Civil War. Hundreds of protesters filled the streets outside the Guggenheim Museum, mimicking the mass casualties in Gaza. The demonstration aimed to draw attention to the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Spain's move to join the ICJ case is part of a broader effort to "let peace return to Gaza and the Middle East," according to Albares. The decision also follows Spain's recent recognition of the state of Palestine, along with Ireland and Norway. This recognition has sparked fury in Israel, which accused the three countries of "rewarding terrorism" and subsequently withdrew its ambassadors.

The conflict in Gaza has drawn international condemnation, with many countries calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to negotiations for a two-state solution. Spain's decision to join the ICJ case underscores its commitment to holding parties accountable for violations of international law and seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with ongoing military operations causing significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The international community continues to call for an end to the violence and a renewed focus on achieving a lasting peace in the region.

Key Takeaways:

• Spain joins South Africa's ICJ case against Israel over Gaza conflict.
• Protesters in Bilbao mimic mass casualties in Gaza outside Guggenheim Museum.
• Spanish Foreign Minister cites ongoing military operations as reason for decision.
• Spain's move aims to promote peace and uphold international law.
• Israel withdraws ambassadors after Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognize Palestine.