Over 35,000 people have been killed in Gaza and Deakin University is involved in research and development of explosives and guided weapons that are being sent to Israel and then to Gaza. Premier Jacinta Allan said she had not been made aware of this situation at Deakin University. Melbourne University also has pro-Palestine rallies, which have prompted counter-protests by supporters of Israel. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed concern about antisemitism and noted that his government is preparing to launch an investigation into racism at universities. Australia voted in favor of greater rights for Palestine at the United Nations, but there have been concerns about the rise of antisemitism in the country.
People protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza have been camping at various Australian universities, including Monash and the University of Melbourne, calling for them to cut ties with weapons manufacturers. The protests have sparked a national debate about free speech, discrimination, and respect for differing viewpoints on campus. The protesters at Deakin University, according to Duff, are not antisemitic and do not seek the abolition of Israel. They see themselves as standing with a tradition of Jewish anti-war and pro-Palestine activists. On the other hand, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry has criticized the protests as a nuisance promoting a violent and racist ideology.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stressed the importance of respectful debate and acknowledged the distress that both the Jewish community and individuals with relatives in Gaza may be experiencing. He emphasized the need for calm and respectful discourse on university campuses, condemning violence and antisemitic behavior. Meanwhile, more than 500 Australian academics have signed a letter in support of the students who are peacefully protesting against Israel’s actions in Gaza. They have called for an end to Western government support for Israel’s attacks, divestment from complicit companies, and an end to what they see as war crimes in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza has been a point of contention, with over 35,000 Palestinians killed since Hamas’ attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis last year. Australia’s vote for greater rights for Palestine at the United Nations has been met with both praise and criticism. While some applaud the students protesting in peaceful encampments, others view the protests as a source of intimidation and racism against the Jewish community. The debate surrounding the protests at universities like Deakin highlights the complex and sensitive issues surrounding the conflict in Gaza and the need for respectful and nuanced dialogue on campus.
