UPDATE: Massive pro-Palestine protests are set to erupt across Australia today, as organizers predict hundreds of thousands will take to the streets demanding action against Israel’s military assault on Gaza. Despite a court banning marches across Brisbane’s Story Bridge, a rally will still occur at 11:00 AM AEDT from Queens Gardens to Musgrave Park, showcasing a resilient push for political change.
Nationwide participation is expected from up to 37 towns and cities, marking this as potentially the largest pro-Palestine demonstration in Australian history. Protesters are urging the Albanese government to halt arms trade with Israel, amid a humanitarian crisis where UN reports indicate over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, including 18,000 children.
In a significant backdrop, the UN recently declared a full-fledged famine in Gaza, warning that more than 500,000 individuals face catastrophic starvation due to Israel’s blockade. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the UN’s findings, labeling them “an outright lie” as Israel intensifies its ground invasion, which is expected to displace countless civilians.
Viral footage from earlier protests, particularly in Sydney, has captured the hearts of many, showing families and senior citizens demonstrating in the rain, with crowd estimates ranging from 100,000 to 300,000. This powerful imagery has resonated globally, amplifying calls for justice and humanitarian intervention.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman of the Queensland Police expressed disappointment over the lengthy legal disputes concerning protest routes, emphasizing that their issues were procedural rather than ideological. “It is disappointing that it has had to take mediation and two court hearings to land on a position that could’ve been resolved two weeks ago,” he stated.
Key speakers at today’s events include renowned activists like Grace Tame and journalist Antoinette Lattouf, both of whom have been vocal about the dire situation in Gaza. Their presence is expected to galvanize crowds and draw further attention to the urgent humanitarian issues at stake.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with aid groups warning that the blockade is exacerbating the crisis, the protests serve as a crucial platform for Australians to voice their concerns and push for change. Organizers emphasize that today’s actions are not merely symbolic but are aimed at exerting real political pressure on the government.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as the protests unfold and more details emerge on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
