Around 9,000 demonstrators marched through Brussels calling for an end of Israel’s fierce bombardment and fighting in Gaza, in a pro-Palestinian protest that ended in the EU district.

Participants in the peaceful “Justice for Palestine” demonstration, whose size was estimated by Brussels police, yelled out “stop genocide”, “Israel: terrorist” and “free Gaza”.

Some also cried out “EU, shame on you” for perceived inaction by Brussels to protect Palestinian civilians while others urged a boycott on Israeli goods and businesses.

“We really need to unite against the genocide happening in Gaza and fight for an end to Israel’s occupation,” said one demonstrator, Victor Dumont.

“No people deserves that, whatever side they’re on — it’s not possible,” said another, Bahija Dioure.