Protesters gathered along the Sydney Marathon course to express opposition to the participation of 40 Israeli soldiers, criticizing the Australian government's decision to issue them visas. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and held signs demanding explanations for the soldiers' presence in Australia. Activists have raised concerns about the soldiers' involvement in alleged human rights violations in Gaza.
The Israeli delegation included members from the Golani Brigade and Unit 8200. A member of the United Nations Commission of Inquiry has described the Golani Brigade as one of the most accused units in the Israeli military. One soldier in the marathon delegation, Roy Oryon, has previously served in combat roles in Gaza and Lebanon.
Criticism of the Australian Department of Home Affairs' visa decision has been widespread, with calls for investigations into the soldiers' backgrounds. The Boycott, Divest, Sanctions (BDS) movement stated that Australia has a legal obligation to investigate individuals suspected of committing genocide. Al Jazeera inquired about whether the soldiers underwent additional security checks, but the Department of Home Affairs declined to comment on specific cases.
The soldiers arrived in Australia shortly after Israel's military declined to investigate the killing of Australian citizen Zomi Frankcom, who died in a drone strike in Gaza in April 2024. The Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) has called for scrutiny of the soldiers' participation, stating that allowing individuals suspected of serious international crimes to enter Australia undermines the country’s commitment to international law.