A substantial crowd gathered at Forrest Place in Perth on Sunday, participating in a national pro-Palestine rally. This event took place days after a leading hunger monitor reported that approximately 500,000 people are facing famine in Gaza. The rally is part of a series of planned demonstrations across major cities and towns in Australia, highlighting growing concerns over humanitarian issues in the region.
The rally’s organizers, the Palestinian Action Group, noted that this event follows a recent march in Sydney that attracted over 100,000 participants across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. According to the group, the momentum generated by the bridge march has inspired similar gatherings nationwide.
Calls for Action on Human Rights
Addressing the crowd, Nick Everett, an organizer with Friends of Palestine WA, emphasized the collective sentiment across the country, stating, “People are standing up and saying ‘enough.’” He criticized the Australian government for continuing to support what he described as an “apartheid regime,” arguing that the government cannot profess to support human rights while providing arms to such entities.
Marches were organized not only in Perth but also in Geraldton, Bridgetown, Margaret River, Karratha, Denmark, Albany, Broome, and Bunbury, reflecting widespread engagement in the cause across Western Australia.
High-Profile Activists Join the Cause
The rallies featured prominent speakers, including Grace Tame, a well-known activist and former Australian of the Year, and journalist Antoinette Lattouf. In Canberra, Senator David Pocock addressed attendees, further amplifying the message of urgency regarding humanitarian aid for Palestine.
The collective voice of the crowds across the nation signals a significant moment in the ongoing discourse around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Organizers stress that the call for action is urgent, with the message that “Palestine can’t wait” resonating deeply among participants.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, these rallies serve as a platform for raising awareness and advocating for humanitarian intervention, reflecting a growing movement within Australia to address these pressing global issues.
