Balanced News: Thousands take to streets in support of Israel and Palestine amid ‘second stage’ of war

Thousands of protesters gathered in Sydney in support of both Israel and Palestine, with supporters holding artworks and images of hostages. Another rally is scheduled to take place in Sydney later in the day, and rallies are also expected in Melbourne. The protests come as fighting escalates, with Israeli ground forces moving into Gaza. The bombardment has cut off communications and left Gaza’s 2.3 million people isolated. Israeli military images show tank columns moving near the border and warplanes bombing Hamas tunnels and bunkers. Family members of hostages met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, expressing support for a prisoner exchange.