Standing in unity, holding signs and waving flags, activists have gathered to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and to oppose the conflict with Iran.
Protesters once again turned out in force for the weekly rally in Melbourne’s city centre, calling for the recognition of a Palestinian state and condemning the Israeli government’s military response to Hamas’ attack on Israel.
Braving Sunday's rain, the group marched in a loop, starting from the State Library, chanting and carrying banners and signs that read “Sanction Israel,” and “Glory to the Martyrs.”
The protest came amid continued violence in Gaza, which escalated after Hamas, a designated terrorist organisation, launched an attack on Israel, killing about 1200 people and abducting 250 others in October 2023.
In response, Israeli military strikes have killed more than 56,400 Palestinians in the besieged territory, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry.
Free Palestine Melbourne protests are not only demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza but also calling for an end to the attacks on Iran.
Tensions between Iran and Israel recently eased after both sides agreed to a ceasefire, following a 12-day conflict during which the US bombed three of Iran's nuclear facilities.
Iran launched missiles at a US military base in Qatar in response.
Protesters say they will continue to build strong and vibrant rallies throughout July, aiming to engage a broader demographic and push for change at the parliamentary level in Australia.
This includes “Converge on Canberra,” a three-day event from July 20 designed to send a clear and urgent message to the federal government.
“Now is the time to pressure Labor to end its support and complicity in genocide,” organisers said.
