Violent intimidation to achieve political goals. “Lebanon protesters mob PM,” from the Sunday Times, with thanks to Sr. Soph and Liz:
VIOLENT scuffles have broken out between police and Lebanese protesters who mobbed Prime Minister John Howard’s car as he left the WA Liberal Party conference in Perth.
Mr Howard was leaving the WA Liberal Party state conference when about 200 protesters, many of whom were waving Lebanese flags and shouting “we want peace”, mobbed his vehicle.
Punching, kicking, and throwing projectiles: now there’s a good way to show your desire for peace.
Protesters punched, kicked and threw projectiles at Mr Howard’s car as police struggled to keep them at bay.
Mr Howard’s entourage sped from the scene as police wrestled protesters to the ground.
The Prime Minister said this week he understood Israel’s decision to carry out its devastating military offensive against Lebanon to put an end to attacks by Hizbollah guerrillas who have fired rockets deep into Israeli territory.
At least one protester was arrested and taken away by police.
Protesters later continued their rally along one of Perth’s main streets calling for peace in the middle east.
Protest leader Muhammad El Khatib said he has family in Lebanon and the Australian government is not doing enough to broker peace in the region.
“There are mothers watching their children die,” Mr El Khatib said.
Muhammad El Khatib has been to choir practice. He knows the tune the media loves to hear sung.