Around 100,000 people marched across Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday to protest Israel’s actions in Gaza and highlight the ongoing famine. New South Wales police worked to manage the large crowd and ensure safety. Despite the rain, protesters began gathering at about 2 pm ACT. They marched while chanting slogans such as “Free, free Palestine.” The protest took place after a court rejected a police request to ban the event.
Voices from the crowd
The Palestine Action Group organised the protest to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, according to the Canberra Times. Some protesters carried pots and pans to symbolise starvation. They also held Palestinian signs.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange joined the march. He was seen leading the crowd alongside former foreign minister Bob Carr, holding a “Save Gaza” placard. The crowd also included several Labour MPs, former Socceroos captain Craig Foster, and former boxer and rugby league player Anthony Mundine.
Official response and crowd management
Before the march, Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi criticised New South Wales Premier Chris Minns. He had urged people to stay home to avoid disorder. Faruqi said, “This was never about logistics or traffic. It was about silencing voices and avoiding accountability concerning Israel.”
Authorities closed Sydney Harbour Bridge in the morning as protesters gathered at Lang Park. Later, police sent a text message asking the crowd to end the march. Acting NSW Police Commissioner Peter McKenna described the turnout as the largest he had seen in Sydney.
He said the police were overwhelmed by the numbers. A police helicopter instructed protesters to turn back towards the city. Estimates of the crowd size differed. Police put the number at around 90,000, while organisers claimed it was closer to 300,000.
Meanwhile, about 25,000 people marched near King Street Bridge in Melbourne. Riot police were present there, according to 9News.
