A significant protest on the Sydney Harbour Bridge brought traffic to a standstill as thousands participated in the March for Humanity, showcasing solidarity for Palestine.
**Historic Pro-Palestine March Closes Sydney Harbour Bridge Amid Controversy**
**Historic Pro-Palestine March Closes Sydney Harbour Bridge Amid Controversy**
Thousands gather for the March for Humanity as torrential rain fails to dampen spirits following a last-minute court ruling.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge witnessed another historic demonstration as thousands, undeterred by pouring rain, rallied in support of Palestine. Dubbed the March for Humanity, the protest occurred after the Supreme Court granted last-minute approval just a day prior. The event saw notable figures, including WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, attend alongside federal MP Ed Husic and former NSW Premier Bob Carr, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse regarding Palestinian statehood and humanitarian concerns.
Despite the torrential downpour, marchers flooded the iconic bridge, asserting that safety measures were in place after concerns raised by police were deemed insufficient to warrant a prohibition order. Organizers, represented by Palestine Action Group, had initiated the march following what they termed "atrocities" in Gaza, alluding to a growing urgency for action amid increasing global calls for recognition of Palestinian statehood.
After two hours of marching, attendees received directives from the New South Wales Police to halt their procession due to safety protocols, urging a controlled reversal back toward the city. Motorists were cautioned to steer clear of the congested area, anticipating extensive delays and disruptions across Sydney's transport network.
This protest marked the second time within a year that the bridge was closed for a public assembly, previously seen during the World Pride march, where 50,000 participated. The latest demonstration encountered mixed reactions at the political level. While the Supreme Court's Justice Belinda Rigg acknowledged the safety concerns, she affirmed that the urgency of the cause warranted the march's progression, ordering the closure of roads to enhance safety for participants.
The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies expressed dissatisfaction with the court's decision, emphasizing the need for better handling of such events. As conversations about Palestinian recognition intensify, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated his stance emphasizing security for Israel, signaling a complex and evolving political landscape ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.
Despite the torrential downpour, marchers flooded the iconic bridge, asserting that safety measures were in place after concerns raised by police were deemed insufficient to warrant a prohibition order. Organizers, represented by Palestine Action Group, had initiated the march following what they termed "atrocities" in Gaza, alluding to a growing urgency for action amid increasing global calls for recognition of Palestinian statehood.
After two hours of marching, attendees received directives from the New South Wales Police to halt their procession due to safety protocols, urging a controlled reversal back toward the city. Motorists were cautioned to steer clear of the congested area, anticipating extensive delays and disruptions across Sydney's transport network.
This protest marked the second time within a year that the bridge was closed for a public assembly, previously seen during the World Pride march, where 50,000 participated. The latest demonstration encountered mixed reactions at the political level. While the Supreme Court's Justice Belinda Rigg acknowledged the safety concerns, she affirmed that the urgency of the cause warranted the march's progression, ordering the closure of roads to enhance safety for participants.
The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies expressed dissatisfaction with the court's decision, emphasizing the need for better handling of such events. As conversations about Palestinian recognition intensify, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated his stance emphasizing security for Israel, signaling a complex and evolving political landscape ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.
