UPDATE: A NSW Supreme Court ruling has just authorized a major pro-Palestinian rally across the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Sunday, with thousands of protesters expected to gather amid escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza. The court, presided over by Justice Belinda Rigg, dismissed a police request to ban the rally, stating that the potential disruption caused by peaceful protests does not justify prohibiting them.
The rally, organized by the Palestinian Action Group Sydney, aims to draw attention to what the United Nations has described as “worsening famine conditions” in Gaza, where more than 60,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives, including over 17,000 children. The urgency of the situation has mobilized support from various activist groups, human rights organizations, and public figures, including former Socceroo Craig Foster.
On Friday, arguments were made to the court regarding the potential safety risks associated with the rally, but Justice Rigg emphasized that disruption is inherent in the nature of protests. She stated, “It is in the nature of peaceful protests to cause disruption to others.” This decision comes as a significant moment for activists nationwide, with similar demonstrations planned in Melbourne and other locations.
Adding to the tensions, a pro-Israel group had sought to hold a counter-protest in the tunnel under the Sydney Harbour but withdrew their application shortly after filing it, as confirmed by police. This development highlights the divided sentiments in Australia regarding the ongoing conflict.
In a related note, a recent YouGov poll indicates a significant shift in public opinion, with over 60 percent of Australians advocating for tougher government measures against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The survey, which questioned 1,507 Australian voters, revealed that a majority believe Prime Minister Anthony Albanese‘s responses have been inadequate. Respondents are calling for concrete measures, including economic sanctions and an end to arms trade with Israel.
The poll underscores the profound emotional impact the nearly two-year-long conflict has had on Australians, with 68 percent of Labor voters and 91 percent of Greens voters demanding a more robust governmental response to the crisis. YouGov director Paul Smith noted, “This poll shows there’s clearly across-the-board support for the Australian government to be doing much more in response to the situation in Gaza.”
As the rally draws near, all eyes will be on the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Sunday, where demonstrators are expected to make their voices heard. The implications of this event are significant, not just for local activists but for the broader conversation surrounding Australia’s role in international humanitarian efforts.
Stay tuned for live updates and further developments as the situation unfolds.
