Sydney and Auckland are first major cities to ring in 2024 as war shadows celebrations elsewhere
Sydney and Auckland have kicked off the year 2024 as the world’s first major cities to welcome the new year. The celebrations were marked by stunning fireworks displays that lit up the skies over Sydney Harbor and New Zealand’s Sky Tower, attracting over a million revelers.
In Sydney, the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge took center stage as tons of explosives erupted in a dazzling 12-minute display at midnight. Around one million people, accounting for one in five of the city’s residents, gathered along the shore and on boats in the harbor to witness the spectacle.
Across the Tasman Sea, in Auckland, a light rain that persisted throughout the day cleared just in time for the countdown. The city’s 1.7 million inhabitants gathered around the 328-meter Sky Tower as an illuminated digital display marked the arrival of the new year.
However, amid the festivities, celebrations around the world were cast with a shadow of war and conflict. Many cities deployed extra security measures, and some even canceled their New Year’s Eve events.
In Sydney, more police officers were on duty than ever before due to recent pro-Palestinian protests and increased tensions resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The city’s waterfront has been a hotspot for demonstrations following the illumination of the Sydney Opera House sails in the colors of the Israeli flag.
Meanwhile, at the Vatican, Pope Francis used his traditional Sunday blessing to address the suffering caused by armed conflict. He offered prayers for the tormented Ukrainian people, the Palestinian and Israeli populations, the Sudanese people, and many others affected by war and violence.
New York City also prepared for its annual New Year’s Eve bash in Times Square, with officials and party organizers emphasizing the safety of revelers. While there were no specific threats, security measures were expanded, including the use of drones to monitor protests.
Across the Atlantic, European cities like Paris and Berlin ramped up security ahead of their New Year’s Eve celebrations. In France, 90,000 law enforcement officers were deployed, mainly due to the very high terrorist threat resulting from the Israel-Hamas conflict. Paris anticipated over 1.5 million attendees on the Champs-Elysees.
In Berlin, authorities aimed to prevent riots and banned the traditional use of firecrackers in several areas. Additionally, a pro-Palestinian protest in the Neukoelln neighborhood was also disallowed.
In Russia, military actions in Ukraine overshadowed end-of-year celebrations. Fireworks and concerts on Moscow’s Red Square were canceled, following last year’s decision. After a deadly attack in Belgorod, local authorities across Russia canceled their firework displays as well.
Closer to the Middle East, Pakistan chose to ban all New Year’s Eve celebrations in solidarity with the Palestinians. The caretaker Prime Minister urged citizens to show simplicity and empathy, highlighting the sadness among Muslims worldwide over the attacks in Gaza.
As Sydney and Auckland joyfully welcomed the first moments of 2024, the world grappled with the ongoing conflicts and their impact on New Year’s Eve celebrations. Despite the shadows cast by war, these cities remained determined to mark the beginning of a new year with hope and resilience.
