Overview

• More than 40 rallies were held nationwide, with organisers claiming about 350,000 attendees and police estimating around 10,000 in Brisbane versus organisers’ 50,000.
• Brisbane’s march shifted to Victoria Bridge after Chief Magistrate Janelle Brassington blocked a planned Story Bridge crossing on public safety grounds.
• Amnesty International endorsed the protests and called for an immediate ceasefire and a two‑way arms embargo on Israel.
• Organisers cited the UN‑backed IPC’s declaration of famine in parts of Gaza as a key driver for the coordinated day of action.
• Relations with Israel have deteriorated since Australia moved to recognise Palestinian statehood, and Jewish community leaders said the rallies created an unsafe environment.