In a powerful display of solidarity, hundreds of thousands of people braved heavy rain to protest on Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge, demanding an immediate ceasefire in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid. The demonstration, held on Sunday, was part of a global outcry against the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange among the participants.
The nearly two-year-long conflict has seen over 60,000 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces, according to reports. Governments and international human rights organizations have warned that Gaza is on the brink of famine, with thousands facing starvation and malnutrition due to severe food shortages.
The protest, dubbed the “March for Humanity,” saw participants carrying pots and pans as symbols of hunger. Despite attempts by New South Wales police and the state premier to block the march on the Harbour Bridge citing security and traffic concerns, the state’s Supreme Court ruled on Saturday that the demonstration could proceed.
Hundreds of police officers were deployed to ensure the protest remained peaceful, with authorities urging participants to maintain order. A similar demonstration in support of Palestinians took place in Melbourne, where police presence was also significant.
Global diplomatic pressure on Israel has intensified in recent weeks to end the war. France and Canada have announced their recognition of Palestine as a state, while the UK has indicated it may follow suit if Israel fails to address the humanitarian crisis and agree to a ceasefire. Israel has criticized these moves, claiming they reward Hamas, the governing group in Gaza.
The conflict began in October 2023 following an attack by Hamas on Israel, prompting a devastating Israeli military campaign that has reduced much of Gaza to rubble. Millions have been displaced, and the region faces a dire food crisis, with women and children bearing the brunt of the suffering.
Australia’s centre-left Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has voiced support for a two-state solution, condemning Israel’s obstruction of aid and civilian casualties. However, he has not yet recognized Palestine as a state.
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