Demonstrators gathered to cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday, chanting “Ceasefire now,” after the Supreme Court authorized the march just one day before, allowing the event to proceed despite initial resistance. Organizers hailed this decision as “historic.”
Despite torrential rain, tens of thousands joined the March for Humanity, carrying placards demanding politicians end the war. Notably, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange attended, alongside federal MP Ed Husic and former NSW Premier Bob Carr, marking the bridge’s first closure for a public assembly since 2023.
Court Ruling and Public Safety
Justice Belinda Rigg approved the “March for Humanity” just 24 hours before it began, stating she acknowledged safety risks but found the organizers’ arguments about the urgent Gaza crisis compelling. Consequently, police closed the bridge to vehicles, granting protesters legal protection against assembly-related charges.
However, families, including those with small children, joined the peaceful demonstration. Police officers from the riot squad monitored the event. “I know it’s the other side of the world, but it affects us here massively,” said Alec Beville, a father who compared the children in Gaza to his son, Frankie. “We could be helping a lot more with aid.”
“Our government hasn’t imposed decent sanctions on Israel,” added Zara Williams, carrying her baby, Avery. “We can’t do nothing while there’s a forced starvation of an entire population.”
Two hours into the event, NSW Police texted attendees, ordering an immediate halt “due to public safety.” They instructed the crowd to turn back towards the city “in a controlled way.” Police have not yet provided any crowd size estimate.
Transport for NSW warned motorists of major city delays after road and public transport networks faced significant disruption throughout Sydney.
Growing Pressure for Palestinian Statehood
Meanwhile, Australia faces mounting pressure to recognize Palestinian statehood, following similar indications from France, Canada, and the UK. However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the need for lasting security for Israel before considering recognition of a Palestinian state.
The historic march on Sydney Harbour Bridge underscores the global call for a ceasefire in Gaza. Despite logistical challenges and legal hurdles, the protest highlighted urgent humanitarian concerns and the growing pressure on governments to take action.
