May 31st 2024.
In the early hours of this morning, the US Consulate in Melbourne and several high-profile Labor MPs' offices were targeted by pro-Palestine protesters. The situation has caused quite a stir, with police launching an investigation into the vandalism. Reports have stated that red paint and pro-Palestine messages were sprayed onto the buildings, including the offices of Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and former Labor leader Bill Shorten. Kat Theophanous, a Northcote MP, also fell victim to the vandalism, and protesters later gathered outside the headquarters of Wills MP Peter Khalil.
Some of the slogans seen on the buildings include "free Gaza," "glory to the martyrs," and "free Palestine," along with a few profanities. According to 3AW reporter Madelaine Burke, the US Consulate has sustained damage to its windows and metal doors. The incident occurred after several groups organized a national day of action against Labor MPs whom they accuse of being complicit in the genocide happening in Israel's invasion of Gaza. The situation has caused widespread concern, with community members demanding that their voices be heard.
Protest group Unionists for Palestine has expressed their outrage regarding the situation, stating, "Israel has unleashed hell on civilians sheltering in supposed safe zones in Rafah." They went on to describe the horrific footage they have seen, including people being burned alive and decapitated babies. The group has called for communities across the continent to take action at their local Labor MP's offices this Friday to make their demands known. Police have stated that their investigation into the protests will be thorough.
According to Victoria Police, the incidents occurred around 4 am, and red paint was thrown at several MPs' offices. They have assured the public that all incidents will be thoroughly investigated. The government has repeatedly urged Israel to halt their offensive into Rafah, and just a few weeks ago, they voted in favor of expanding Palestine's rights at the United Nations. However, they have yet to recognize Palestine as a state, unlike Norway, Ireland, and Spain, who did so earlier this month.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong has condemned the vandalism, stating that it is unacceptable for workers to feel unsafe in their workplace. She also expressed concern over the nature of the protests, saying, "We have a right to peaceful protest in this country, but we should rightly condemn protests that are violent, hateful, and aggressive." Wong shares the concerns and feelings of many Australians regarding the situation in Gaza and Rafah. She reiterated the government's efforts to pressure Israel to comply with humanitarian law and protect civilians in the region.
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