UPDATE: A major rally organized by the Palestinian Action Group Sydney is set to take place tomorrow on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with thousands expected to participate. This court-sanctioned protest aims to draw attention to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which the United Nations has labeled as “worsening famine conditions.”
The protest will begin at 11:30 AM and last until approximately 4 PM, leading demonstrators from the Central Business District (CBD) to North Sydney. In anticipation of significant disruption, Police Minister Yasmine Catley has advised commuters to avoid the area, warning of “massive, massive disruption” and significant delays.
Earlier today, Supreme Court Justice Belinda Rigg ruled against an application from the NSW police commissioner to halt the march, emphasizing that the right to peaceful protest inherently includes some level of disruption. “It is in the very nature of the entitlement to peaceful protest that disruption will be caused to others,” she stated.
The decision grants protesters legal protections against charges related to obstructing traffic or pedestrians, a statement that has stirred strong emotions across the community. Greens MP Sue Higginson celebrated the ruling as a victory for humanity and an important stand against government overreach.
As police prepare for the event, acting deputy commissioner Peter McKenna noted that officers will be deployed along the route to ensure safety. He warned that any individuals attempting to incite violence or hijack the protest would face swift action.
Support for the rally has surged, with backing from numerous organizations, including Amnesty International, various churches, and trade unions. Former Socceroo Craig Foster and other public figures have also voiced their support, amplifying the protest’s message.
In Melbourne, solidarity protests are also planned, with demonstrators expected to march through the city’s CBD toward the King Street Bridge.
Public sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict has shifted dramatically, with a YouGov poll revealing that over 60% of Australians now favor stronger government measures against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. This comes amidst reports of over 60,000 Palestinians killed in the conflict, including more than 17,000 children, raising urgent calls for action.
As the situation develops, authorities are closely monitoring the rally and its impact on public safety. Stay tuned for live updates as the protest unfolds, with potential implications for traffic and city operations throughout the day.
