Pro-Palestine supporters filled the streets of Sydney and Melbourne, protesting Israeli actions and calling for justice, as Australia faces growing debates over its stance on the Middle East conflict.
Over the weekend, thousands of pro-Palestine supporters gathered in Sydney, Adelaide, Adelaide and Melbourne to mark the first anniversary of October 7, a day that holds significance in the ongoing Middle East conflict. Demonstrators took to the streets to protest Israeli actions and express solidarity with the Palestinian people, while also criticizing Australia’s stance on the issue.
In Sydney, the Palestine Action Group led the protests, with organizer Josh Lees emphasizing the movement’s growing momentum. “We are just getting started,” he told the crowd, referring to the increasing support for the Palestinian cause. Many activists voiced frustration over what they see as the Australian government’s backing of Israel, with Sydney rally organizer Amal Nasser stating, “It is not us who supports terror, it is our government.”
In Melbourne, similar sentiments were expressed. Nasser Mashni, head of the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network, pointed out the ongoing suffering of Palestinians, calling attention to the daily struggles they face. The protests also saw support from Indigenous activists, who stood in solidarity with Palestinians and other oppressed communities.
However, the timing of these rallies, close to the anniversary of the attacks on October 7, drew criticism from political leaders. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and other officials called for the day to focus on commemorating the lives lost. Both NSW Premier Chris Minns and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan urged for sensitivity and respect in light of the anniversary.
The protests highlight the ongoing divisions within Australia about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with many pushing for justice and human rights for Palestinians amid a deeply emotional global issue.
