2,800 people in Berlin demand: End weapons for Israel!

2,800 people in Berlin demand: End weapons for Israel!

On June 15, 2025, the Street of June 17th in Berlin became the scene of an impressive demonstration. Around 2,800 people called for an end to German arms deliveries to Israel and at the same time called for solidarity with the Palestinians. The event was organized by the “Never again war – put down the weapons” initiative and the Peace Coordination Berlin. The rally ended at 4:45 p.m., which was largely peaceful and was accompanied by numerous speeches and musical contributions. Participants waved Palestinian flags and showed a spirit of solidarity.

The police presence was high at around 450, and there were isolated reports of banned slogans and physical injuries. Obstacles for representatives of the press were also reported. Two smaller counter-demonstrations took place nearby to show solidarity with Israel. These events make it clear once again that the issue surrounding the Middle East conflict is highly polarizing.

A wide range of actions

The call for the demonstration also included an action against Israel's war against Iran, although the recent escalations between the two countries were hardly mentioned at the rally. Israel had previously carried out a large-scale military attack on Iranian military sites and nuclear facilities, after which Iran responded with missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities. This complex geopolitical interplay raises questions and challenges protesters to find clear positions.

The peace movement in Germany has been a much-noticed phenomenon since the 1980s and is often misunderstood. The political tensions in the national and international context cause confusion about the movement's goals and views. In this context, too, the current demonstrations make it clear that the protesters are pursuing one goal: ending military interventions and striving for peace.

The role of the peace movement

The peace movement sees itself as a social movement that organizes public protests against social and political injustices without forming formal parties. Historically, it developed from various anti-military movements since 1949 that were directed against the rearmament and nuclear armament of the Bundeswehr. Opinions about the influence of this movement on the federal government's security policy decisions are mixed. Many believe that there is a lack of understanding between the peace movement and the political system of the Federal Republic.

Looking at the current protests in Berlin and other events in the country, it is clear: the urge for peace and the pursuit of a just world are still very popular. While the issues remain sensitive, the voices of the demonstrators are growing louder and it remains to be seen what impact their demands will have on the political landscape in Germany.