Australian police have announced an investigation into a pro-Palestinian protest outside the Sydney Opera House. Footage has emerged depicting a sizable group allegedly chanting anti-Semitic slogans during the demonstration, including phrases like "gas the Jews" and "Kill the Jews." Approximately 1,000 pro-Palestinian supporters marched through downtown Sydney on Monday evening, reaching the iconic Opera House, which had been illuminated in the colors of the Israeli flag in response to Saturday's attacks by Hamas, resulting in over 900 Israeli casualties.
Unverified video clips, shared by the Australian Jewish Association and featured on Sky News, seemed to show a small group outside the Opera House lighting flares and chanting "gas the Jews." Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his deep concern, referring to the reports of anti-Semitic slogans as "horrific."
Hamas supporting crowd in front he of Sydney Opera House chants “gas the Jews” in disgusting shocking display of what the “free Palestine” movement is all about. pic.twitter.com/VAvSCLvLMM
— Emily Schrader - אמילי שריידר امیلی شریدر (@emilykschrader) October 10, 2023
Albanese emphasized Australia's commitment to tolerance as a multicultural nation, stating, "I understand that people have strong opinions on Middle East conflict-related issues, but here in Australia, we must engage in political discourse with respect." New South Wales state police held a news conference on Tuesday, announcing their review of protest footage to determine if any offenses were committed.
The organizers of the protest, the Palestine Action Group in Sydney, defended their right to protest against "apartheid" in Israel. However, they condemned the "vile antisemitic attendees" and stressed their commitment to being an anti-racist and anti-colonial movement. They expressed their refusal to combat racism with more racism through a social media post.
Over the past two days, numerous Muslim countries have witnessed demonstrations in support of Palestinians in Gaza following the surprise attack by Hamas. These demonstrations involved expressions of support for Gaza citizens, waving Palestinian flags, celebrating the Hamas attack, lighting flares and smoke grenades, and distributing sweets. Israeli flags and American flags were burned at the centers of these protests.
Burning Israeli flags at the opera house in Sydney - is this how Palestinians pray for peace while Israelis are being slaughtered in their houses. pic.twitter.com/qPL1lM9oNm
— Jeremy Leibler (@jeremyleibler) October 9, 2023
Jordanian media reported support demonstrations in the Gaza Strip since the Saturday morning attack. A significant demonstration supporting Hamas and Islamic Jihad took place near the Israeli embassy in Amman, with photos showing protesters dancing in the streets. The Israeli embassy staff in Amman was evacuated ahead of the demonstrations due to concerns about potential violence.
In addition to the demonstrations in the Arab world, pro-Palestinian protests occurred in Spain, the Netherlands, the United States, and other countries. Demonstrators also gathered outside the White House in Washington to protest President Joe Biden's statement of support for Israel. The Protesters called for the immediate 'liberation' of Palestine.
