German Police Clash with Protesters at Nakba Anniversary Rally

May 17, 2026 • Al Jazeera

German Police Clash with Protesters at Nakba Anniversary Rally

Berlin Police Use Force Against Protesters at Nakba Anniversary Rally

Thousands of people gathered in Berlin on Wednesday to commemorate the 78th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba, a significant event in the country’s history. The rally, which took place in the city center, saw a large turnout of protesters holding signs and banners expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

According to eyewitnesses, German police responded to the gathering by using force against the protesters. Video footage obtained by Al Jazeera shows police officers hitting and pepper-spraying demonstrators. The incident occurred as the police attempted to disperse the crowd.

The Nakba anniversary commemorates the displacement of Palestinians from their homes in what is now Israel during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The event has become an important date on the Palestinian calendar, marking a significant loss for the Palestinian people.

The Berlin rally was one of several events held around the world to mark the occasion. The turnout in Berlin was substantial, with thousands of people attending the gathering. The police presence at the rally was notable, with officers deployed to maintain order and control the crowd.

The incident involving the police and protesters has sparked attention from human rights groups and observers. The details of the event are still emerging, but it is clear that a significant confrontation took place between the police and demonstrators.

Source: Al Jazeera