Tens of thousands of protesters defied pouring rain to march across Sydney’s Harbour Bridge on Sunday, calling for an end to the war in Gaza and urgent humanitarian aid. The demonstration, dubbed the “March for Humanity,” drew an estimated 90,000 people—far exceeding police expectations—with organizers claiming up to 300,000 participants. Attendees, ranging from elderly activists to young families, carried symbolic pots and pans to highlight starvation in Gaza, where Palestinian authorities report over 60,000 deaths since the war began.
New South Wales police and the state premier had sought to block the march, citing safety and traffic concerns, but the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the protesters. Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Peter McKenna acknowledged the massive turnout, deploying over 1,000 officers to manage the crowd. “No one was hurt, but I wouldn’t want to do this every Sunday,” he remarked. Similar protests took place in Melbourne, reflecting growing public outrage over the crisis.
The rally coincided with escalating international criticism of Israel’s military actions. France and Canada recently pledged to recognize a Palestinian state, while Britain warned it may follow unless Israel addresses Gaza’s humanitarian disaster. Israel condemned the moves as “rewarding Hamas,” accusing the group of stealing aid. Australian PM Anthony Albanese reiterated support for a two-state solution but stopped short of recognizing Palestine, stating Israel’s denial of aid and civilian deaths “cannot be defended or ignored.”
Protesters like Doug, 60, and Therese Curtis, 80, emphasized solidarity with Gaza. “When people unite, evil can be overcome,” said Doug, while Curtis, a retired nurse, stressed: “Palestinians are having hospitals bombed—I march for their right to medical care.” With chants of “We are all Palestinians” echoing across the bridge, the demonstration underscored a global demand for an immediate ceasefire and unhindered aid access to Gaza.
