Pro-Palestinian Events in Australia Commemorate October 7 Attacks Despite Jewish Community Outcry

Pro-Palestinian events in Australia are set to take place on October 7, the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre, with rallies and protests planned in central locations across New South Wales. These events, described as “in memory of the martyrs,” have sparked significant controversy and condemnation from the Jewish community and officials.

Organizers of the events have issued posters that accuse Israel of responsibility for the outbreak of the war, completely erasing the massacres, kidnappings, and victims. The Wallungong authorities have approved these events, which call for the commemoration of those who “continue to resist.” In Sydney, another event is planned, with organizers claiming the attacks began on October 7 due to Israeli actions.

The Jewish Community Messengers Council in New South Wales (JBD) has strongly criticized the timing of these events. CEO Michelle Goldman compared the decision to hold a protest on October 7 to remembering al-Qaeda on September 11. She emphasized that the event should recognize the Israelis, Jews, Arabs, and foreign workers who were murdered in the attacks, calling the omission a clear example of an “anti-Israel obsession.”

Despite widespread condemnation, elected officials have faced challenges in addressing the events. New South Wales Prime Minister Chris Minnes described the initiatives as “offensive and obscene,” but noted that Supreme Court rulings on freedom of political expression make it difficult to close such protests. Both the Wollongong and Sydney city councils have defined the events as “collective mourning without speeches,” highlighting the complexity of balancing free speech with public safety and sensitivity.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)