A tense stand-off in Melbourne has ended after pro-Palestine protesters clashed with police while attempting to breach a barrier between two rival demonstrations.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
More than 1000 people attended an anti-Semitism demonstration outside state parliament on Sunday afternoon while hundreds of people turned out for a counter-protest further down the street.
The two groups were initially separated by dozens of police whose ranks quickly grew as tensions escalated across several hours.
At least one person briefly went over the police barrier, with several others unsuccessfully trying to get past officers.
Police lined up several rows deep as the demonstrations went on, with officers from the mounted branch venturing out into the pro-Palestine protest at one point.
Outside parliament, more than 1000 people including some waving Israeli flags attended a separate rally organisers said was intended to promote social cohesion and stand against hate and anti-Semitism.
Former Victorian premier Ted Baillieu, state Liberal MP David Southwick and political figure Warren Mundine were among those who attended the rally organised by a "Christian grassroots movement".
A video message from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was played to the crowd.
"In the battle against anti-Semitism in Australia, I say to Australians of Jewish faith, you are not alone," Mr Dutton said in the message.
"The fight will not be yours alone."
Police previously warned they would have a highly visible presence.
"Victoria Police respects the right for people to protest lawfully however we ask that they do so peacefully without impacting the broader community," a spokesperson said.
Trams were stopped from entering the area outside Parliament and the top end of Bourke Street, which is usually bustling on a weekend.
Several members of the public were seen enjoying a meal at hospitality venues located between the two demonstrations as loud music and chants rang out through the city.
Earlier in the day, protest group Free Palestine Melbourne posted a message to social media urging supporters to exercise caution and avoid the anti-Semitism demonstrators who they warned could "provoke violent confrontation".
The crowd at the pro-Palestine demonstration chanted phrases including "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free".
Australian Associated Press
