Anti-Israel rioters clash with police in Melbourne

“Victoria police is appalled at the behavior of some of the protesters in attendance. If you wish to come and protest, do so peacefully. We will not tolerate criminal behavior," the Victoria state police spokesperson said.

“Some police have been spat at by protesters, whilst other officers have been sprayed with a liquid irritant, some of which has been identified as acid," the spokesperson continued.

The protests were organised by a collection of groups calling itself Disrupt Land Forces, including the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network. Videos and photos showed many rioters waving PLO flags and chanting anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian slogans through loudspeakers.

“From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," a chant calling for the elimination of Israel, was heard at the protest.

They were protesting against the biennial Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition being held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Around 1,000 exhibiting organisations from 31 countries, including Israel, were expected at the expo, which organizers said was the largest in Australia.

The event wraps up on Friday, with the protests continuing through Saturday.