Discussion of Middle East conflict-related gatherings
In the heart of Berlin, two rallies took place yesterday, both protesting against the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The first rally, dubbed "Stop the Genocide," began at Friedrichstraße around 15:30 with approximately 90 participants, peaking at 140. The rally ended around 18:15, with a total of 170 participants. However, the event was not without incident. Verbal altercations and insults between protesters and media representatives, as well as among media personnel, were reported. Additionally, participants repeatedly attempted to obstruct press and police by holding up scarves and umbrellas.
It is not clear if the rally leaders lost control over the participants, or if police had to limit the rally to prevent further obstruction of press and police work. No specific instances of participants attempting to obstruct press or police during this rally have been reported.
Nine criminal or administrative offense proceedings were initiated during the rally. The reasons for these proceedings include displaying unconstitutional symbols, insults, and violations of the assembly freedom law. Six arrests were also made during the rally, with three of them resulting in the use of physical force by officers as other protesters attempted to intervene.
Meanwhile, in Central and Wedding, another rally titled "Solidarity with Palestine. Stop the Gaza Genocide - No Weapon Delivery to Israel" was held. Organised by the Autonome Vollversammlung Berlin, the rally took place at Müllerstraße from 17:20 to 19:00. Announcements were made, and a media protection area was established during the rally. Police officers also restricted the freedom of a participant wearing clothing with a prohibited print.
Unlike the "Stop the Genocide" rally, verbal altercations and insults between protesters and media representatives, or among media personnel, were not reported during this rally. The rally proceeded without significant incident.
Both rallies underscore the ongoing public concern and engagement with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and the tensions that can arise when large groups gather to express their views.
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