Melbourne, September 9 (RHC)-- Environmental activists with Extinction Rebellion have disrupted preparations for a defense expo in Melbourne, Australia, to protest the 11-month-long war in Gaza.

On Sunday, activists with Extinction Rebellion also protested against the event, blocking Montague Street near the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where the expo is set to open on Wednesday.

Formed in 2018, Extinction Rebellion has gained notoriety by employing disruptive tactics targeting roads and airports to denounce the extraction and burning of fossil fuels.

However, in recent months, they have taken a strong position on the genocidal war of aggression being carried out by Israel and have called for an immediate ceasefire.

“If we believe in climate and ecological justice, we must seek justice in all forms.  The climate and ecological emergency has roots in centuries of colonial violence, exploitation and oppression,” the UK-based group said in a statement.

Protesters gathered in front of companies connected to weapons manufacturing across Melbourne as police were called to prevent an escalation of the events, according to 7News Melbourne.  Police presence was visible in front of company buildings.

Demonstrations are expected to move across the city to different areas ahead of the Land Forces military expo, where more than 25,000 participants are expected.

Pro-Palestinian protesters in Australia have been urging the government to impose sanctions on Israel for its war on Gaza.