UPDATE: Pro-Palestinian activists are gearing up for a major showdown as they fight for the right to hold a massive rally at the Sydney Opera House on October 12, 2023. The Palestinian Action Group aims to gather 10,000 people for an anti-Israel protest, shortly after the second anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks.
Authorities have confirmed that NSW Police are taking legal action in the Supreme Court to prevent the rally, citing urgent safety concerns regarding the expected crowd size and potential for “crowd crush.” However, activists vehemently reject these claims, asserting their right to protest under both international and domestic law. Activist and spokeswoman Amal Naser stated, “This is racist. It is outrageous and it will not silence us.”
The planned protest route will start from Hyde Park and proceed through the CBD to the Opera House forecourt, a location that typically accommodates events with a standing capacity of around 6,000 people. Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna emphasized that the police are not anti-protest but are prioritizing public safety due to the venue’s limitations, stating, “Emergency services need to be able to access the site if an incident occurred.”
The situation is further complicated by the historical context surrounding the Opera House. The forecourt recently hosted a controversial pro-Palestine rally in response to the building’s sails being illuminated in the colors of Israel following the initial attacks, which resulted in severe repercussions for Gaza.
Negotiations between police and the Palestinian Action Group are ongoing, with alternative routes being discussed. McKenna noted that the police would be “happy to facilitate” these discussions, potentially allowing the protest to proceed in a safe manner. Activist leaders are calling on the community to stand together, arguing that police actions reflect a broader issue of oppression.
In a show of solidarity, NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson condemned the police’s legal efforts as “outrageous, extreme, and racist.” She expressed frustration over the lengthy legal proceedings aimed at suppressing protests that seek to highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians.
As tensions rise ahead of the event, the Palestinian Action Group remains determined to proceed with their plans, stating, “We have the right to march and we will keep on fighting for Palestine.” The outcome of the court proceedings is expected to unfold rapidly, making this a pivotal moment for both the activists and law enforcement.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
