Police chiefs urge calm ahead of October 7 pro-Palestine protests in Australia

Australian police chiefs are urging calm ahead of pro-Palestine protests marking the anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack. A planned protest in Sydney will proceed on October 6, but a vigil on October 7 will replace a larger demonstration after negotiations with police. The federal government is working to evacuate Australians from Lebanon amid escalating violence. Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the need for Australians to leave while Beirut's airport remains open, as many are still in Lebanon despite the deteriorating situation. Protest organizers in Sydney and Melbourne plan peaceful events, with guidelines to limit provocative displays. The police are investigating allegations of displaying Hezbollah flags at recent protests, aiming to maintain public order during the upcoming demonstrations.