Tens of Thousands Join Pro-Palestine March Across Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Supreme Court cleared the way for a massive pro-Palestine protest over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, drawing tens of thousands despite last-minute safety concerns.
A historic pro-Palestine protest marched across the Sydney Harbour Bridge after the NSW Supreme Court lifted a ban just one day before the event. Organisers called the March for Humanity an urgent response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Tens of thousands gathered on Sunday despite heavy rain, carrying placards and chanting slogans demanding an immediate ceasefire and increased Australian aid to Gaza. Among the crowd were WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, federal MP Ed Husic and former NSW Premier Bob Carr.
Public Reaction and Police Measures
Families with young children joined the peaceful demonstration, while riot police stood at key points. Attendee Alec Beville compared his own child to those in Gaza, saying Australia should do more to deliver aid. "Our government hasn’t imposed meaningful sanctions on Israel while a population faces forced starvation," said Zara Williams.
Two hours into the march, participants received a text from NSW Police ordering them to stop and return south for safety reasons. Police have not released an official estimate of the crowd size.
Legal Battle and Government Response
Transport for NSW warned motorists to avoid the city, predicting major delays. The Palestine Action Group had notified authorities a week in advance, but police initially refused permission, citing safety and traffic concerns. Premier Chris Minns had warned the protest could lead to chaos on the bridge.
However, Justice Belinda Rigg ruled there was "no evidence" that banning the protest would improve safety and highlighted the organiser’s urgent humanitarian rationale. The court order closed the bridge to vehicles and granted protesters protection under the Summary Offences Act.
Broader Diplomatic Context
The protest comes as Australia faces calls to recognise Palestinian statehood ahead of the UN General Assembly. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told ABC’s 7.30 programme that Australia would seek conditions ensuring Israel’s security before formal recognition.
The Supreme Court’s last-minute approval of the pro-Palestine march highlights mounting public concern over the Gaza crisis and intensifies debate over Australia’s diplomatic stance.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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