Hundreds of thousands marched in Sydney and Melbourne against Israel’s actions in Gaza, demanding a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, sanctions on Israel, and recognition of Palestinian statehood.
Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Sydney, Australia, in one of the country’s largest anti-war demonstrations, protesting against Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The march, titled “Walk for Humanity,” took place on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and in central Melbourne. Protesters demanded an immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian aid for Gaza.
The Palestine Action Group in Sydney estimated that nearly 300,000 people joined the protest, calling it one of the largest pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Australian history.
Public figures including WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi participated in the event, which also drew sharp criticism toward the Australian government for its involvement in the F-35 fighter jet supply chain—aircraft reportedly used by Israel in Gaza bombings.
Protesters accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza and condemned Australia’s perceived complicity in the war.
Among the speakers was Antony Loewenstein, author of The Palestine Laboratory, who called out Australia’s role in “enabling” the conflict.
Demonstrators also highlighted the growing hunger crisis in Gaza, where, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, 175 people—including 93 children—have died from malnutrition.
Australian media described the protest, attended by families, elderly citizens, and youth, as a clear reflection of widespread public dissatisfaction with Australia’s policies on the Gaza war.
Protesters demanded tough sanctions on Israel and called for the recognition of Palestine as a step toward a two-state solution.
The demonstration comes amid a shift in global sentiment, as Australia and over ten other countries have recently expressed support for recognizing Palestinian statehood.
This mass mobilization reflects a growing global call for accountability, justice, and a re-evaluation of international alliances in the face of humanitarian catastrophe.
There is increasing pressure on governments, including Australia, to align foreign policy with human rights and the principles of international law.
