PM Warns Against Importing Radical Ideologies Amid Protests.
Government Threatens Visa Cancellations
The Australian government is considering visa cancellations for individuals inciting “discord” within the country. This warning follows protests over Israel’s attacks on Lebanon during the weekend. Some protesters displayed Hezbollah flags and images of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who was recently killed in an Israeli strike.
Minister Condemns Support for Terrorism
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke released a statement on Monday, condemning any indication of support for terrorist organizations. “Such actions draw the immediate attention of our security agencies,” Burke noted, emphasizing that there would be heightened scrutiny for visa holders. “From day one, I have stated that I will consider canceling visas for anyone seeking to incite discord in Australia.”
Political Reactions to Protests
The opposition has speculated that those displaying Nasrallah’s image at the protests may be visa holders. However, no evidence has been presented to support this claim, nor to confirm that they are not Australian citizens.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed Burke’s concerns in brief comments before a cabinet meeting. He primarily focused on economic issues but also addressed the unrest in the Middle East. “We’ve seen worrying signs over the weekend,” he stated. “We do not want radical ideologies of conflict in Australia. Multiculturalism and social cohesion must be protected.”
Calls for Stricter Measures
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton accused the protesters of glorifying Nasrallah and suggested that some might be visa holders. He did not provide evidence for this assertion. Dutton expressed his outrage, stating that members of the Jewish community feel threatened. “The glorification of a terrorist leader should be against Australian law,” he said. Dutton urged Parliament to pass new laws if necessary and insisted that existing laws should be enforced.
Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations
On Sunday, the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network organized rallies nationwide in support of Gaza. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered at locations such as the state library in Melbourne and Sydney Town Hall, as well as in smaller cities, to protest the escalation of conflict.
Condemnation of Terrorist Support
Treasurer Jim Chalmers also condemned any support for Hezbollah or Hamas, calling it “utterly unacceptable.” He reiterated that both groups are recognized as terrorist organizations. Chalmers warned that any support would attract attention from security agencies.
Security Agency Stance
Mike Burgess, head of ASIO, stated earlier this year that mere rhetorical support for extremist ideologies does not automatically disqualify someone from holding a visa. However, active support for violent extremism would lead to scrutiny.
New Hate Speech Laws
New hate speech laws implemented earlier this year ban the display of prohibited symbols, including those associated with Nazi and terrorist organizations. An Australian Federal Police spokesperson clarified that for an act to be considered an offense, it must involve promoting ideas based on racial superiority, inciting hatred, or intimidating individuals based on their race, religion, or nationality.
While police can instruct individuals to remove prohibited symbols, they do not have the authority to remove them directly.
Police Responsibility
A spokesperson for Attorney General Mark Dreyfus stated that it is up to the police to determine if any action should be taken against those involved in the protests.
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