Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, saw tens of thousands join a pro-Palestinian rally on Saturday, making it the largest demonstration of its kind in the country since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023, Reuters reported.
Organizers estimated around 50,000 participants, while police put the figure at 20,000. Marchers carried Palestinian flags and banners with slogans like “Don’t normalize genocide” and “Stand with Palestine,” calling on the government to impose sanctions on Israel.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon previously condemned Israeli actions in Gaza as “utterly appalling” and indicated New Zealand was considering recognition of a Palestinian state. According to Reuters, the protest ended peacefully, with no arrests reported.
