Sydney: Tens of thousands of demonstrators braved pouring rain on August 3 to join the ‘March for Humanity’ across Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge, demanding peace and urgent aid deliveries for Gaza.
The protest comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where over 60,000 people have reportedly died since Israel’s military campaign began nearly two years ago, according to Palestinian authorities.
Participants, ranging from seniors to families with children, carried umbrellas and Palestinian flags, and some brought pots and pans to highlight growing hunger in the besieged enclave. “Enough is enough, when people from all over the world gather together and speak up, then evil can be overcome,” said a protester named Doug, in his 60s.
Notably present at the March for Humanity was Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. Protesters chanted slogans such as ‘We are all Palestinians.’ The New South Wales police and state premier initially sought to block the protest route over the Harbour Bridge, citing safety concerns and potential traffic disruptions.
To Sydney from Melbourne
However, the state’s Supreme Court ruled on August 2, that the protest could proceed. In response, hundreds of police officers were deployed, and authorities urged demonstrators to remain peaceful. A parallel protest also took place in Melbourne.
The March for Humanity came amid intensifying global pressure on Israel. France and Canada recently recognized the State of Palestine, while the UK warned it would follow unless Israel improves humanitarian conditions and agrees to a ceasefire.
Israel has criticized these recognitions, claiming they reward Hamas, the group that governs Gaza and whose attack in October 2023 triggered the ongoing conflict. Israel denies deliberately starving the population and accuses Hamas of stealing aid.
Australia’s centre-left Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has voiced support for a two-state solution. Albanese said that Israel’s actions, particularly blocking aid and causing civilian deaths, “cannot be defended or ignored,” though his government has not yet recognized Palestine.
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