On Saturday evening, the center of Bilbao became the focal point of tense events as thousands took to the streets to show solidarity with Palestine. However, one of the demonstrations, organized by the Palestinarekin Elkartasuna movement and supported by football fans from the Basque Country, escalated into unrest.
Participants in the protest set at least four garbage containers on fire at various spots along the city’s main avenue, Gran Vía. The flames spread quickly, and firefighters had to act swiftly to prevent further damage. The smell of smoke filled the air as passersby hurried to leave the danger zone.
Tensions rose when firecrackers, flares, and bottles were thrown at police officers. Security forces were forced to ramp up measures to prevent escalation. Despite calls for a peaceful march, some attendees adopted an aggressive approach, leading to brief clashes with law enforcement.
On the same day, the city center saw two separate rallies, both in support of Palestine but organized by different groups. The second demonstration, which started a bit later, proceeded without major incidents, though it was closely monitored by the police.
According to municipal authorities, around 20,000 people took to the streets. Organizers of the march had previously expressed concerns about the possible criminalization of their initiative, especially ahead of the upcoming football match between the Basque Country and Palestine. The authorities called for calm, but provocations could not be entirely avoided.
As a result, the center of Bilbao was partially paralyzed: traffic was restricted, and residents watched the events unfold with concern. Despite the incidents, most participants left the march site without delay, and city services quickly began cleaning up after the unrest.
