The Palestine Action Group is set to hold a rally on Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday, August 3, at 1pm. This event, branded the “March for Humanity,” aims to protest against what the group describes as the “deliberate starvation of 2 million Gazans.” A spokesperson has confirmed that a Form 1 has been filed with the NSW Police regarding the planned demonstration.
The action represents a significant moment, marking the first time pro-Palestine activists will march across the iconic bridge since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which escalated following the attacks on October 7, 2023. The Palestine Action Group has issued a call for all individuals and organisations who are concerned about the situation in Gaza to join them in solidarity.
According to their statement, crossing the Harbour Bridge—an emblematic symbol of Australia—will deliver a potent message not only to Australia but also to the international community, including Gaza and Israel, about their commitment to humanitarian principles. The group emphasises the urgency of the situation in Gaza, asserting that it justifies temporarily closing the bridge to traffic for the rally.
The group claims that majority opinion in Australia is against the situation in Gaza, adding that they urge the Australian government to cease arms exports to Israel and calls for sanctions against it. However, the Australian government has denied these claims, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stating in April that Australia does not send arms to Israel.
A Facebook event promoting the march has garnered significant interest, with over 160 individuals indicating their plans to participate. The NSW Police are aware of the planned assembly and are in consultation with relevant stakeholders, although it remains uncertain whether they will seek to impede the march through legal channels.
This rally is seen not just as a protest, but as part of a broader movement demanding action in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging the Australian government to reevaluate its stance on military support for Israel.