Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued his strongest condemnation of Israel yet, denouncing the killing of civilians including children seeking aid in Gaza. In a statement on Friday, he said the situation had 'gone beyond the world’s worst fears' and that Israel’s denial of aid and killing of civilians 'cannot be defended or ignored'.
However, Albanese stopped short of following French President Emmanuel Macron’s lead in committing to recognise a Palestinian state. Instead, he reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to a two-state solution, calling it necessary for a 'just and lasting peace'. He also reiterated Australia’s condemnation of Hamas and called for the immediate release of hostages.
The prime minister urged Israel to comply with international law and allow unimpeded aid delivery. His statement comes amid rising global condemnation, with at least 45 people dying of hunger in Gaza in recent days. Australia recently joined 27 other nations in a statement criticising Israel’s 'drip feeding of aid' and 'inhumane killing' of Palestinians.
Albanese did not announce new specific actions, but pressure is mounting from humanitarian groups and Labor MPs for further measures, including sanctions. MP Ed Husic said the government 'need to do more' and should work with allies to ramp up coordinated sanctions.
