Overview
- NSW Police reported 15 arrests and 12 charges after officers used pepper spray to control crowds outside the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition at the ICC in Darling Harbour.
- Riot, mounted and dog squad units held containment lines after protesters tried to breach barricades during a planned blockade; police said red paint was thrown and two officers were injured.
- Protesters, led by the Palestine Action Group, targeted the attendance of Israeli defence firms including Elbit Systems and Rafael, and organisers vowed to rally each day of the three-day event.
- Premier Chris Minns defended the expo’s economic value and sponsorship, saying invitations were not his responsibility, while Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said no Australian weapons have been supplied to Israel in five years and current export licences relate to ADF equipment servicing.
- The expo features a broad mix of exhibitors from major contractors to universities and continues under heavy security, with delegates hearing from Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond before protesters marched to Town Hall and dispersed.