Tony Burke Warns of Visa Cancellations After Hezbollah Flags Waved at Melbourne Protest

Federal Liberal frontbencher James Paterson said the presence of Hezbollah flags at a pro-Palestinian protest was “disturbing” as the home affairs minister warned of visa cancellations for anyone seeking to incite “discord” in Australia.

The rally in Melbourne formed part of a national day of action for Gaza, with thousands of people also taking to the streets in Sydney and other cities.

A small group with Hezbollah flags — some holding what appeared to be framed photographs of the Lebanese militant group’s slain leader, Hassan Nasrallah — joined the Melbourne event as speeches ended and people began to march.

Nasrallah was killed by an Israeli airstrike on Friday amid escalating tensions in the region.

Paterson said the presence of Hezbollah flags at the rally was “disturbing” given it is designated by Australia as a terrorist organisation and called for police to enforce the law.

Victoria Police said the display of terrorist symbols was a Commonwealth offence.

“[We] support the right to protest peacefully and had a visible presence at the protest to ensure public safety,” it said in a statement.

“Appropriate referrals will be made to the Australian Federal Police as the lead agency concerning prohibited symbols.”

Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke said: “Any indication of support for a terrorist organisation is unequivocally condemned.”

“It draws the immediate attention of our security agencies. There is a higher level of scrutiny if anyone is on a visa. I have made clear from day one that I will consider refusing and cancelling visas for anyone who seeks to incite discord in Australia.”

Organisers of the rally told AAP the group was not affiliated with those running the demonstration.

Who was Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah leader Israel has killed?

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the government condemns “any indication of support for a terrorist organisation” such as Hezbollah.

“It not only threatens national security but fuels fear and division in our communities,” she wrote on X.

“All of us — including every political leader — must stand together to reject terrorism and extremism.”

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