Dramatic scenes unfolded in Sydney as pro-Palestine activists brought traffic to a standstill on the iconic Harbour Bridge, targeting Israeli minister Sharren Haskel during her visit to Australia.
The protest, organised by the Palestine Action Group, saw demonstrators chain themselves to vehicles on the bridge's southbound lanes during Friday morning rush hour. Police were forced to close multiple lanes as they worked to remove protesters, making several arrests in the process.
Controversial comments spark outrage
The demonstration was prompted by Haskel's recent comments describing Palestinian civilians as "Nazis" during an interview with Sky News Australia. The former Likud party member, now with the right-wing National Unity party, made the inflammatory remarks while discussing Israel's military actions in Gaza.
"We cannot stand by while an Israeli minister spreads such dangerous rhetoric," said protest organiser Jamal Daoud. "Her comments dehumanise Palestinians and justify the ongoing violence in Gaza."
Police response and traffic chaos
New South Wales police confirmed they arrested multiple protesters for obstructing traffic and failing to comply with directions. Officers used angle grinders to cut through chains and remove activists from the bridge.
The protest caused significant disruption during peak hour, with traffic backed up for kilometres across Sydney's CBD. Commuters faced delays of up to 90 minutes as authorities worked to clear the scene.
Political fallout
The incident has sparked debate about the limits of protest and free speech in Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the bridge blockade while acknowledging protesters' right to demonstrate peacefully.
Israeli officials have defended Haskel, calling the protest an attempt to silence legitimate political discourse. The minister is scheduled to speak at several events in Sydney and Melbourne before returning to Israel next week.
