A group of activists, including anti-Zionist Jewish activists, First Nations mates, and allies for a free Palestine, gathered outside the office of Australian Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. The protesters, wearing face masks and holding banners with messages such as “Stop arming Israel,” “Free Palestine,” “Free Gaza,” and “Stop the genocide,” blockaded the office in Geelong, Victoria. However, Marles was not present as he was in the United States.
Some protesters used bike chain locks to chain themselves by the neck at the minister’s reception area. An organizer delivered a speech, admitting his lack of understanding of the Palestinian situation but demanding the government to stop providing arms to Israel. The protesters believed that pressuring their own government and corporations to halt arms and resources supply to Israel would contribute to ending the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.
Five people were arrested and released pending summons, including three Victorians aged 24, 25, and 21, as well as two Northern Territory women aged 31 and 37. The group identified themselves as “anti-Zionist” activists and emphasized their solidarity with First Nations people. They claimed to have taken over Marles’ office for nearly five hours.
The activists released a press release titled “Not in our name,” demanding Marles and the federal Labor government withdraw diplomatic, economic, and military support for Israel’s alleged “occupation of Palestine.” Marles expressed his concern for the safety of his staff, stating that peaceful protest is a fundamental right in Australia’s democracy but should be conducted safely and appropriately.
Meanwhile, 23 individuals, including 20 Australian citizens, have escaped the Hamas-run Gaza Strip and registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts stated that crossings like this occurred with the support of Australian consular officials and diplomats in the region. Currently, 65 Australians remain in Gaza, and efforts are being made by the government to ensure safe passage across the Rafah crossing.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton called for proper screening of repatriated individuals from Gaza, emphasizing the need to act in the country’s best interest and ensure certainty about the identities of those being brought back.