Spain Braces for Nationwide Strike Wednesday Amid Ongoing Palestinian concerns
Madrid,Spain – A 24-hour general strike is set to impact Spain on Wednesday,driven by ongoing concerns for the Palestinian people despite the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. While essential services will be maintained,significant disruptions to public transport and potential demonstrations are expected across the country.
The strike, called by Spain’s Student Union and impacting educational institutions from high schools to universities (though university participation is expected to be more widespread), aims to protest what organizers view as the legitimization of the occupation of Palestine. “This pact legalises the occupation of Palestine.There will be no justice or freedom for the Palestinian people,” the Student Union stated. Organizers have confirmed the strike will proceed despite the truce, citing the continued suffering of Palestinians.
Here’s what to expect Wednesday:
* Public Transport: Reduced services are anticipated nationwide.
* Madrid: Cercanías commuter trains will operate at 75% capacity during peak hours and 50% during off-peak times.Madrid Metro will run at 80% capacity during rush hour, falling to 50% at othre times.
* Barcelona: All public transport (Rodalies trains, Barcelona Metro, TMB buses, tram etc.) will maintain 66% of regular service.
* Valencia: Public transport will operate at 80% capacity.
* Málaga: Services will be reduced to between 75% and 50% capacity.
* Demonstrations: Protests are planned in at least 40 cities. Authorities advise against travelling through city centres during these events. Specific marches are scheduled in:
* madrid: Departing from Atocha train station at midday and 7pm.
* Barcelona: Starting at 6pm from Sants station. A full breakdown of march locations and times is available here.
* Essential Services: Spanish law mandates minimum service levels in essential sectors. Emergency healthcare, police services, and public transport will continue to operate, albeit with reduced staffing.
* Healthcare: Primary care, emergencies, and treatment for serious conditions will continue as usual. Some health workers will have the right to strike for a two-hour period.
* Specific Protests: In Valencia, protestors plan to boycott a basketball match between Valencia Basket and Israeli team Hapoel Tel Aviv.
The strike’s impact remains somewhat uncertain, with Spanish media giving it less prominent coverage than anticipated. While announced before the ceasefire, organizers are determined to continue, highlighting the ongoing issues facing Palestinians.
Workers in essential sectors are scheduled for shifts between 10am-12pm (morning), 5pm-7pm (afternoon), and 2am-4am (night).
