Thousands of Spaniards took part in a nationwide strike and demonstrations on Tuesday in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to denounce what organizers described as “genocide in Gaza.”

Walkouts occurred in schools and factories across major cities, including Madrid and Barcelona.

Trade unions urged the Spanish government to cut ties with the Israeli occupation and adopt a stronger political stance.

The protest followed the announcement of the first phase of the U.S.-brokered peace plan between Hamas and the occupation, which demonstrators said was insufficient to end the assault on civilians.