By Ahmed Amin
Tens of thousands of Australians rallied nationwide on Sunday in pro-Palestinian marches, reflecting mounting public pressure on the government to sanction Israel.
Over 40 demonstrations were held in cities including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, according to the Palestine Action Group. The organizers claimed participation reached around 350,000 people, though police put Brisbane’s turnout closer to 10,000 and did not release figures for other locations.
In Sydney, protesters carried Palestinian flags and shouted “free, free Palestine,” as organizer Josh Lees urged the Australian government to impose sanctions on Israel and condemn its actions in Gaza. “Australians are demanding an end to this genocide,” he said.
The rallies took place just days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intensified his criticism of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over Canberra’s decision earlier this month to formally recognise a Palestinian state. The move, following similar recognition by France, Britain, and Canada, has deepened tensions between Australia and Israel.
That August 11th decision followed another landmark protest, when tens of thousands crossed Sydney’s Harbour Bridge demanding peace and greater humanitarian access to Gaza.
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