Thousands of Australian citizens marched in major cities across the country on Sunday to express their support for the Palestinian cause, just two weeks after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government's decision to officially recognize the state of Palestine.
According to the Palestine Action Group, more than 40 demonstrations took place across Australia, including in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Organisers claim that around 350,000 people took part in the nationwide protests, although police authorities reported lower figures in some areas.
In Sydney, organizer Josh Lees said the demonstrators were calling for “an end to the genocide in Gaza” and direct sanctions against Israel. “Our government must stand on the side of justice and take clear steps against the crimes committed in Gaza,” he stressed.
The Executive Council of Australian Jews, on the other hand, described the gatherings as “dangerous and inappropriate”, warning of increasing tensions within the communities.
Australia’s decision to recognise Palestine on 11 August has caused a diplomatic escalation with Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted sharply, calling Albanese “a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australian Jews”. He added that his decision “will remain an eternal stain”.
The Australian Prime Minister responded that he does not take political attacks personally and that he always maintains respect for world leaders, defending his stance as a step in line with the principles of human rights and peace.
Today's protests follow another massive demonstration on Sydney Bridge, where tens of thousands of citizens last week expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people.
