
A surprising incident transpired on a Sydney train, when a pro-Palestinian protest song resonated over the vehicle’s sound system and the driver voiced a supportive message to the passengers, “We love you all. Here’s a song for you guys.” The song in question, Dammi Falastini by Mohammed Assaf, an Arab Idol winner, incurred cheers from some passengers and a controversial response from others.
Significant outrage followed, particularly from Jewish leaders. The leading body for Jewish representation in Australia expressed vociferous objection, suggesting the train operator’s employment termination.
This occurrence coincided with demonstrations advocating for Palestine, which took place across Australia’s capital cities last Saturday, responding to the ongoing hostilities in the Gaza Strip. The crowds, congregating in the thousands, echoed the train operator’s sentiments revealed in the circulating video.
A group of women on board the train appeared blissfully appreciative of the gesture as they swayed and smiled along with the music, en route to Sydney’s Town Hall. Further video footage depicted passengers erupting in laughter when the song was abruptly played on the train.
“Sydney Trains is aware of the circulating videos on social media and we are looking into this matter.” stated a Sydney Trains spokeswoman.
Robert Gregory, the CEO of the Australian Jewish Association (AJA), made a firm demand for the train driver’s dismissal, due to the “political advocacy on the taxpayer’s dollar”. His concerns heightened in the light of what he interpreted as celebrations of violence against Jewish people.
Israel’s increased military actions in Gaza, retaliation to Hamas’ attacks that have claimed over 1400 lives since Oct 7, have severely escalated the adversity, resulting in death and injuries among hundreds of innocent Palestinians. Amid these horrors, Hamas continues to hold around 200 hostages, as reported by Israeli media.
The conflict has elicited responses from across the world, with global leaders stepping up to devise resolutions and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) urging Australians to lobby for a ceasefire in Gaza.