“Thai Airways Fly Death to Gaza”: Demonstrators Disrupt Marles’ Office

At Tullamarine Airport. Photo: Matt Hrkac

SYDNEY, Feb 26, 2026 — Protesters disrupted Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles’ electoral office and staged demonstrations at Sydney and Melbourne airports on Wednesday, accusing the government of approving export permits for F-35 fighter jet components allegedly destined for Israel.

Activists from Defend Peace Djilang locked themselves inside Marles’ office and displayed posters targeting senior ministers and defence officials. At airport check-in counters, demonstrators held banners reading “Thai Airways Fly Death to Gaza,” alleging the airline transported F-35 parts on commercial flights to Bangkok for onward shipment to Israel.

Police moved protesters on after about 45 minutes. No immediate arrests were reported.

Campaigners alleged the exports breach international law and Australia’s defence export regulations. Australia participates in the U.S.-led F-35 program, with domestic firms supplying components.

There was no immediate response from Marles’ office, the Department of Defence, or Thai Airways.

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