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Activists target packing firm over ‘transportation of Israeli weapons’

ACTIVISTS have responded to Israel’s latest attack on Gaza by targeting a packing firm they claim is involved in the transportation of Israeli weapons.

Four activists from Palestine Action today occupied the roof of the Good Packing Company’s warehouse in Tamworth, Staffordshire, smashing windows and CCTV at the site, according to the direct action group. 

The group claims the firm is involved with the “packing, transportation and exportation” of weapons produced by Elbit Systems — Israel’s largest private arms company — which has nine sites across Britain. 

Activists also sprayed the building with red paint, and vowed to remain on the roof for “as long as possible.” Videos of the protest showed activists using a fire extinguisher to spray red paint inside the warehouse, covering wooden pallets with paint. 

It comes as Israel launched its latest attack on the besieged population of Gaza last week, killing at least 44 people including 15 children, and injuring more than 300. 

A ceasefire between the Israeli government and militant group Islamic Jihad appeared to have held on Sunday night, following nearly three days of violence. 

Palestine Action said on Monday that the protest was part of efforts to enforce an arms embargo on Israel through direct action, as “rallies and appeals to power will do nothing here in Britain.” 

A spokesperson added: “If you work with Elbit, we’re working against you too. When we know our own government won’t do it, the onus is on us to enforce a people-backed arms embargo on the Israeli occupation, using direct action.”

The firm specialises in “Ministry of Defence-type preservation and packing,” according to its website, and manufactures cartons, wooden pallets, crates and cases.

The activists say the firm is a client of Elbit, which provides the Israeli army with 85 per cent of its drone fleet, including the Hermes 450 and 900, used extensively in the Gaza Strip. 
Staffordshire Police said officers were present at the site following reports of protesters on the roof of a business premises.

“We have a number of specialist officers in attendance as they look to deal with reports of criminal damage on site,” the force said. 

The Good Packing Company was approached for comment. 

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