Thousands of Australians in Sydney support Palestine, have doubts about ceasefire

Tens of thousands of people took part in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday, one of several across the country. According to the organizers—the Palestinian Action Group—around 30,000 demonstrators attended.

The demonstration took place in front of the iconic Sydney Opera House despite a court-imposed ban on assembly, and was marked by support for the Palestinians and criticism of Israeli policy.

Despite the start of the ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, there is considerable skepticism among demonstrators about its durability. Critics point to the ongoing Israeli occupation and systematic discrimination against Palestinians.

The demonstration was peaceful, with no police intervention. The Australian Jewish Council condemned the demonstration as an attempt to sabotage the peace process.

(reuters, lup)