A couple of months ago, at a demonstration in front of the State Library, I came across a group of Socialist Alternative members handing out leaflets and selling their magazines in front of a large sign that read “Don’t Attack Iran!”

I asked a member of Socialist Alternative whether this was merely intended to urge opposition to any US military action against Iran, or whether the slogan should be read as opposing any criticism of the Iranian regime. Both, she said - criticism of the Iranian state would only aid reactionary imperialist forces seeking to justify assault or invasion.

A predictable argument ensued quite calmly until another member of Socialist Alternative came and stood between us with her back turned to me, with an obvious desire to prevent any further discussion. In the face of this silliness, I walked away.