Pro-Palestine march Draws tens of Thousands in Auckland, New Zealand as Gaza conflict Intensifies
Auckland, New Zealand – A massive presentation in support of Palestine drew an estimated 20,000 to 50,000 participants to Auckland’s Central Business Zone on September 13, marking the largest pro-Palestinian march in New zealand as the outbreak of the war in Gaza. Demonstrators are demanding the New Zealand government impose sanctions on Israel.
The “O direction for Palestine” group, which organized the march, stated approximately 50,000 people took part in what they termed a “march for humanity,” while police estimates placed the number around 20,000. Protesters carried Palestinian flags and banners bearing slogans such as “Ther is no normalization of genocide.” Organizers had initially planned to close a major Auckland bridge, mirroring a similar action in Sydney last August, but abandoned the plan due to strong winds. No arrests were made,and roads were reopened following the peaceful conclusion of the march.
The demonstration comes amid escalating conflict in Gaza, where the Civil Defence has reported Gaza City is exposed to “blind Israeli madness.” The situation is further underscored by an upcoming Arab Islamic summit scheduled for Monday in Doha, Qatar, to address the ongoing crisis.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Israeli measures in Gaza, including limitations on humanitarian aid, as “very horrific” in August, and indicated his country is considering formal recognition of a Palestinian state. the New Zealand Jewish Council, representing approximately 10,000 Jewish citizens, has not yet issued a statement regarding the Auckland march or the broader developments.
