Australia Joins International Condemnation of Israel’s Gaza Plan
In a joint statement with four other nations, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has strongly rejected Israel’s plan to assume military control of Gaza, warning that it would exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and violate international law.
The statement, released on Saturday, was signed by Foreign Ministers from Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, and called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the region.
Humanitarian Concerns
The joint statement expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of Israel’s plan, including the risk of mass displacement of civilians, exacerbating the “catastrophic humanitarian situation,” and endangering the lives of hostages.
The Foreign Ministers urged all parties involved in the conflict and the international community to work towards ending the conflict and providing “massive, immediate, and unimpeded” humanitarian assistance to the region.
International Law Concerns
The statement emphasized that Israel’s plans risk violating international humanitarian law, and that any attempts at annexation or settlement extension would be in contravention of international law.
Two-State Solution
The Foreign Ministers reiterated their support for a negotiated two-state solution, which would require the total demilitarisation of Hamas and its exclusion from governance in the Gaza Strip, with the Palestinian Authority playing a central role.
The statement comes after the Israeli Security Cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City through renewed military action, which has been met with widespread international criticism.
UN Human Rights Chief Speaks Out
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has also voiced his opposition to Israel’s plan, calling for it to be “immediately halted” and warning that it would result in further human suffering, displacement, and atrocity crimes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied plans for occupation, instead stating that the goal is to “free Gaza from Hamas” and establish a peaceful civilian administration.