Protests have erupted at the University of Sydney, mirroring movements in the United States, demanding divestment from companies linked to Israel amidst the conflict in Gaza.
Inspired by student occupations across American campuses, pro-Palestinian activists have established encampments outside prominent Australian universities, including Melbourne and Canberra.
Unlike the U.S., where authorities have forcibly removed demonstrators, protests in Australia have remained peaceful, marked by minimal police intervention.
At the University of Sydney, over 300 individuals gathered, expressing solidarity with Gaza and calling for institutional divestment from Israeli-affiliated businesses.
Among the demonstrators was Matt, emphasizing the broader community’s engagement beyond students, highlighting a shared responsibility to raise awareness and show support.
Meanwhile, speakers at the rally voiced concerns that the pro-Palestinian demonstrations made Jewish students and faculty feel unsafe on campus, citing chants like ‘Intifada’ and ‘from the river to the sea’ as alarming.
University officials, including Vice Chancellor Mark Scott, acknowledged the protests but allowed the encampments to continue, citing the absence of violence seen in the U.S.
Despite a visible police presence at the entrances, law enforcement remained uninvolved in the demonstrations.
Australia’s historic alliance with Israel has faced scrutiny, particularly following criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, where an Australian aid worker lost his life in an Israeli strike.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators criticized the government’s stance, urging for more significant efforts towards peace and directing chants against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his administration.
The Australian protests signify a global wave of solidarity with Palestine, echoing sentiments expressed across various nations amid the ongoing conflict.
