Violent Clashes Erupt at Melbourne Anti-War Protest

Protesters and police clash outside a major defense expo, resulting in dozens of arrests and injuries.

Police and protesters clashed outside the Land Forces International Land Defense Exposition in Melbourne, leading to 39 arrests.
Protesters threw rocks, horse manure, and bottles filled with liquid irritants, while police responded with pepper spray, flashbangs, and baton rounds.
Authorities reported 24 police officers injured, while protest organizers claimed up to 100 protesters were hurt, some seriously.
The protest, organized by groups including Students for Palestine, was aimed at condemning the arms trade and the use of weapons in conflicts such as Gaza.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton both criticized the violence, emphasizing the need for peaceful protest.