'Incredibly provocative': PM warns against pro-Palestine rallies on October 7

“Because it would be seen, I think, as incredibly provocative. It would not advance any cause,” he told ABC Radio.

“In a democracy, we allow for people, indeed, it’s important that people be able to express themselves peacefully. 

“But October 7 will be one year since the largest number of deaths and murders, call it for what it is, of Jewish people, since the Holocaust. I’ll be attending a vigil to commemorate that terrible day.”

Albanese described pro-Palestine rallies on this day as having the potential to “cause disharmony”.

“I think that people should recognise the sensitivity which is there and have a bit of common sense and see whether their cause will be advanced or whether it will be set back,” he said.

“And my view very clearly is that there is nothing to be served by that.”

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton shared the prime minister’s views on planned rallies next week.

He said the October 7 attack is an anniversary that “should not be celebrated” and called on the government to take action against protesters.

“At a state and federal level, the government should be doing everything they can to stop these protests from taking place,” Dutton said.

NSW Premier Chris Minns also backed calls for police to block the rallies set to take place in Sydney on Sunday, the day before the first anniversary.

NSW Police made a submission through the Supreme Court to block the protest yesterday.

“Our number one concern in New South Wales is peace and safety for New South Wales streets, and the police don’t believe that can be done safely with the acceptance of the form one application this coming weekend,” Minns said, acknowledging the application made by protester organisers to legally rally.

“I want to make it clear also that this will be a difficult weekend for Sydney. Obviously, tempers remain high.”

Albanese said today he supported the police in “whatever action” they are taking to block the protests.