BREAKING: Queensland has just announced a historic ban on pro-Palestinian slogans, including the controversial phrase “from the river to the sea,” as part of sweeping legislation targeting anti-Semitism. This unprecedented move aims to combat rising hate speech in the wake of recent violence against the Jewish community.
Under the proposed laws, which will be introduced in parliament next week, anyone displaying or uttering these slogans could face a maximum of two years in prison. Additionally, the phrase “globalise the intifada” will also be outlawed, reflecting growing concerns over public safety and community harmony following the tragic December 14 Bondi terror attack that claimed 15 lives.
Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the urgency of this legislation, stating, “We called this out from the beginning, we said we’d act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response.” He noted that the goal is to “stamp out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long” to protect Queenslanders.
The full slogan “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” references the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. Critics argue that it represents a call for Palestinian self-determination and human rights, while supporters of the ban, including leaders from the Jewish community, view it as a direct threat, linking it to Hamas’ constitution and its rejection of Israel.
The new legislation will also extend existing bans on hate symbols, such as swastikas, to include Nazi emblems, Hamas and Islamic State flags, and the Hezbollah emblem. The maximum penalty for displaying such symbols will increase from six months to two years imprisonment, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting places of worship from harassment and violence.
Jewish leaders have welcomed this legislative initiative. Jason Steinberg, president of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, stated, “For the past two and a half years, the Jewish community has endured unprecedented levels of hate, intimidation and fear.” He further highlighted that these reforms send a clear message that anti-Semitism and hate have no place in Queensland.
The Labor Party’s opposition multicultural affairs spokeswoman, Charis Mullen, indicated that they support considered laws addressing anti-Semitism and will review the proposals closely. Meanwhile, New South Wales is also considering measures to outlaw similar slogans but has yet to enact such legislation.
As these reforms gain momentum, Queensland’s decisive action marks a significant moment in the fight against hate speech and anti-Semitism in Australia. As communities await further developments, the implications of this legislation are expected to resonate well beyond Queensland, potentially influencing similar measures in other states.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Queensland takes a bold stance against hate in the community.
