Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza has triggered massive protests around the world, and Australia is no exception. Along with weekly street demonstrations attended by tens of thousands, activists have staged protests at MPs offices and universities. In addition, the campaign in solidarity with Palestine has also targeted vessels owned by Israeli shipping line ZIM.

These actions have seen large groups descend on ports when ZIM vessels were due to dock. So far, they have at most delayed the loading and unloading of cargo. On their own, these blockades are unlikely to cause a major dint to ZIM’s bottom line. But as part of a growing international campaign, there’s evidence that this strategy can cumulatively make a difference.

The support of the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has also been significant. But so far this support has not extended to a ban on unloading ZIM vessels. If the MUA were to impose such a ban, the union would face the full force of Australia’s punitive industrial laws, which make such solidarity actions incredibly costly.