A large pro-Palestinian protest took place in Sydney on Sunday, with tens of thousands of people turning out despite torrential rain. The march, known as the March for Humanity, was authorised by the Supreme Court just one day prior and featured WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange among its attendees.
The protesters carried signs with messages calling for an end to the war in Gaza, with chants echoing across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Many families with small babies attended the peaceful demonstration, highlighting the human impact of the conflict on those living abroad.
Organiser Josh Lees argued that there needed to be an urgent response to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The NSW Supreme Court’s decision to authorise the protest was seen as a “historic” moment by organisers, despite initial concerns from police regarding public safety and potential crowd crush risks.
The event drew an estimated 90,000 people, with Transport for NSW warning motorists of major delays and disruptions across Sydney due to the protest. The march received support from several high-profile attendees, including federal MP Ed Husic and former NSW Premier Bob Carr.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated that Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood will depend on conditions met for lasting security in Israel. Meanwhile, the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies expressed disappointment at the Supreme Court’s decision to authorise the protest on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clydnvw1dg5o