Australia Condemns Israel's Aid Blockade, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access

Australia has expressed its deep distress over the ongoing violence in Gaza and has called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, condemnation of Hamas, and the release of all hostages. The Australian government urges Israel to comply with its international obligations, including allowing the United Nations and non-government organizations to carry out their life-saving work safely and without hindrance. Australia has been actively working with other countries to end the war, deliver life-saving aid, and promote a two-state solution, consistent with international law.

Key Takeaways:

• The Australian government has condemned Israel's aid blockade, labeling it a breach of international law, which risks mass death from starvation in Gaza.
• Australia has called on Israel to comply immediately with its obligations under international law, including allowing the United Nations and non-government organizations to carry out their life-saving work safely and without hindrance.
• The Australian government reaffirms its commitment to a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, consistent with international law.
• Australia has consistently been part of the international call on Israel to allow a full and immediate resumption of aid to Gaza in line with the binding orders of the International Court of Justice.
• The Australian government emphasizes that humanitarian aid should never be politicized and condemns Israel's denial of aid and the killing of civilians seeking access to water and food.
• Australia's Prime Minister has described Israel's actions as "indefensible" and a breach of international law.
• Australia has called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages.
• The Australian government has issued a joint statement with 14 countries, including the "New York call," demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian access.

Statistics:

• 16:45: The time Senator Ayes moved an amendment to the motion in the Australian parliament.
• 16:45: The time frame in which Senator Ayes moved an amendment to the motion in the Australian parliament.
• 29 July: The date on which Australia and 14 countries released the joint statement calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian access.
• 21 July: The date on which Australia and 29 other countries released a statement calling on Israel to immediately lift restrictions on the flow of aid.

Sources:

• Senator Ayres' speech in the Australian parliament.
• Joint statement by Australia and 14 countries on 29 July.
• Joint statement by Australia and 29 other countries on 21 July.