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Foreign ministers

Australia Joins International Coalition Condemning Israel Over Gaza Violence

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has emphasized the Australian government's commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the Gaza conflict, despite criticism from the US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. The Australian government has joined a coalition of 28 nations in calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza and condemning Israel's handling of the crisis. The joint statement, led by the United Kingdom, highlights the dire situation in Gaza, where hundreds of Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid. In response, Israel's ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, has attacked the joint statement, arguing it is "disconnected from reality" and sends the wrong message to Hamas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Australia has joined a coalition of 28 nations, including Canada, Japan, New Zealand, France, and Italy, in calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza and condemning Israel's handling of the crisis.
  • The joint statement highlights the dire situation in Gaza, where hundreds of Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid, with over 800 killed according to the territory's health ministry.
  • Israel's ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, has attacked the joint statement, arguing it is "disconnected from reality" and sends the wrong message to Hamas.
  • The Australian government has emphasized the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid to be delivered safely and effectively, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke describing Israel's behavior in Gaza as "indefensible".
  • Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has stated that the return of hostages still held by Hamas is a priority, while Greens leader Larissa Waters has called for the government to sanction the Netanyahu government.

Statistics:

  • Over 800 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid in Gaza, according to the territory's health ministry.
  • Almost 900 people were killed in Gaza while trying to get food, including 674 near aid delivery sites, according to UN Human Rights Council figures published last week.
  • Around 15 pro-Palestine protesters were detained inside Parliament House on Tuesday afternoon, while hundreds gathered outside the building.
  • The joint international statement reaffirms the nations' support for those involved in brokering a ceasefire deal, including the US and Qatar.

Sources:

  • Sky News
  • ABC News Breakfast
  • United Nations Human Rights Council
  • Zionist Federation of Australia
  • Australian Palestine Advocacy Network
  • Reuters
  • Associated Press (AP)

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