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“NSW Police Seek to Ban Pro-Palestine Rally Citing Safety Concerns and Crowd Hazards”

New South Wales police have expressed concerns regarding a pro-Palestine rally scheduled for this weekend in Sydney, citing safety issues related to the anticipated crowd size and potential hazards in the Town Hall area, including the recent installation of numerous planter boxes. Authorities highlighted the possible disruption the rally could cause to other individuals in the vicinity, such as light rail commuters and visitors to the nearby . Campaigners have criticized the police's court action aimed at blocking the protests, labeling it as oppressive. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has described the event, which coincides with the anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel, as "incredibly provocative."

Question 1: What are the main concerns raised by the NSW police regarding the pro-Palestine rally planned for this weekend?

The NSW police cited safety concerns related to the expected crowd size and potential hazards at Town Hall, including the recent addition of over a dozen planter boxes. They also mentioned the potential impact on other users of the precinct, such as light rail commuters and visitors to St Andrews cathedral.

Question 2: How have campaigners responded to the police's push to ban the rally?

Campaigners have argued that the court action to block the Sydney protests is "oppressive," indicating their belief that such measures infringe on their right to protest.

Question 3: What is the significance of the timing of the rally in relation to recent events?

The rally is scheduled for the anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel, which the Prime Minister described as potentially "incredibly provocative," highlighting the sensitive nature of the event.

Question 4: What alternative options are available for those interested in following the developments related to the rally?

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