The war on Palestine, and specifically the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, has resulted in the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, the majority of whom are women and children. Entire neighbourhoods have been flattened, infrastructure has been destroyed, and access to food, water, and medical care has been severely restricted. This crisis is not only a political issue but a profound moral challenge for humanity.

The SMCA, representing 37 Shia Muslim communities across Australia, has long been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights. The campaign draws from a history of solidarity and activism, including hosting rallies, engaging with policymakers, and mobilising grassroots support. The Sydney Harbour Bridge march, part of this broader movement, served as a powerful symbol of public unity, drawing tens of thousands of people in peaceful protest despite heavy rain and political opposition. This unprecedented gathering showcased the deep concern among Australians about the plight of the Palestinian people and demonstrated the community’s determination to demand accountability from leaders. In a political climate where calls for justice are often met with resistance or suppression, the campaign stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of ordinary people to protect human life and dignity. It also reflects a broader international movement, reminding the global community that silence and inaction in the face of genocide and war crimes are unacceptable.

One of the major challenges faced by the campaign is political resistance at the state and national level. Reports that the NSW Government attempted to block the Sydney Harbour Bridge march highlight an ongoing trend of restricting public demonstrations, particularly those calling attention to international human rights violations. Such actions not only undermine democratic freedoms but also attempt to silence the voices of those advocating for peace and justice. Media framing poses another significant challenge. While the campaign calls for the protection of innocent civilians and adherence to international law, certain political and media figures label such movements as “divisive,” deflecting attention from the humanitarian crisis itself. This misrepresentation can create public confusion, hinder solidarity efforts, and discourage wider participation.

Logistical difficulties also persist. Organising large-scale rallies and sustained advocacy requires coordination, funding, and cooperation across diverse community groups. In addition, the crisis in Gaza is ongoing and rapidly evolving, which demands constant adaptation in messaging and strategy. The emotional toll on the community, many of whom have personal ties to those suffering in Palestine, further underscores the urgency but also the strain of sustaining the campaign.

The SMCA’s solution is to continue building an inclusive, broad-based coalition that transcends religious, cultural, and political divides. By partnering with other organisations, such as the Lebanese Muslim Association, and by engaging faith-based groups, unions, student organisations, and human rights networks, the campaign strengthens its reach and legitimacy. Public demonstrations, such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge march, remain a core strategy, serving as high-visibility events that attract both media coverage and political attention. Alongside these rallies, the campaign is committed to producing clear, evidence-based public statements, lobbying political leaders, and engaging in community education initiatives to counter misinformation and highlight the urgency of the crisis.

Internationally, the campaign supports calls for sanctions against Israel until it complies with international law and ends its violations of human rights. Domestically, it demands that the Australian Government take a principled stand, using its diplomatic influence to push for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian aid, and accountability for war crimes. By combining grassroots mobilisation, strategic advocacy, and persistent public engagement, the SMCA’s campaign seeks to keep Palestine at the forefront of public consciousness until meaningful change is achieved. The movement’s ultimate goal is not just to stop the current violence but to help lay the foundation for a just and lasting peace, where Palestinians can live in safety, dignity, and self-determination.