'Not in our nameā€™: Jewish collective occupies defence ministerā€™s office over Gaza

November 2, 2023
Issue 
The Loud Jew Collective and supporters occupied deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles office. Photo: Matt Hrkac

The Loud Jew Collective occupied defence minister Richard Marlesā€™Ā office on November 1 to protest Laborā€™s support for Israelā€™s war on Gaza.

About 50 anti-Zionist demonstrators demanded Marles and federal Labor withdraw economic, diplomatic and military support for Israel's occupation of Palestine.

Some protestors locked themselves by the neck to a ladder in Marlesā€™Ā office, while others, including First Nations and community activists, unfurled banners which read: ā€œStop the genocideā€, ā€œALP supports ethnic cleansingā€, ā€œNot in our nameā€Ā and ā€œDisarm Israelā€.

The protesters spent the next four hours singing Jewish cultural songs.

Once dozens of Tactical Response Group police arrived, the occupation was brought to a speedy end, with four arrests.

Anti-militarist activist Zelda Grimshaw, who took part in the action, said: ā€œLaborā€™s Richard Marles acts as a broker for major international weapons deals. Taxpayer dollars should not be funnelled into the pockets of giant weapons corporations. Australian made weapons should not be trained on the people of Gaza.ā€

[ is organising a rally on November 4, 12pmĀ at the Little Malop Street Mall and march to Marlesā€™Ā office to demand he supports a ceasefire.]

You need Ā鶹“«Ć½, and we need you!

Ā鶹“«Ć½ is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.