Australian Ministers Condemn Israel's Reprisals in Gaza

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Senior Australian federal minister Ed Husic has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s reprisals in Gaza, stating that Palestinians are being “collectively punished for Hamas’s barbarism.” Husic’s comments were immediately supported by fellow Labor frontbencher Anne Aly, who suggested Israel could be investigated over potential war crimes.

Consequences of Conflict

Husic, the industry and science minister, detailed the devastating impact of the conflict on Palestinian civilians, citing approximately 3,000 deaths, including around 1,000 children. He also highlighted the destruction of homes, schools, and medical centers, as well as shortages of food, fuel, medicine, and water.

Husic emphasised the obligation of governments, particularly the Israeli government, to protect innocents and follow international law. He expressed concern over the long-term implications for Israel if it continued to occupy Gaza.

Parliament’s Response to Hamas Attacks

Anne Aly, the early childhood education minister, claimed that it was “entirely appropriate” for the parliament to condemn Hamas attacks. However, she expressed fear over the escalating violence leading to more Palestinian lives lost. Aly urged Israel to abide by the rules of war developed by the international community to protect the human rights of civilians during conflict.

When asked if Israel had committed war crimes, Aly stated that this could be a matter for investigation. She insisted that any state or group committing war crimes should be held accountable.

Prime Minister’s Stand

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recognised Israel’s right to defend itself but also urged the Netanyahu government to “operate by the rules of war.” This came amid increasing expectations of an imminent ground operation in Gaza.

Condemnation of Civilian Deaths

Other members of the parliament also voiced their concerns. Labor senator Fatima Payman and MP Julian Hill condemned the killing of innocent civilians in Israel and Palestine. Hill argued that Israel’s right to defend itself did not extend to the “indiscriminate mass killing of innocent Palestinians.” Payman stressed that Australia “must condemn” civilian deaths as “Israeli missiles strike residential dwellings, civilians, multi-story apartments, health facilities as well as places of worship, indiscriminately killing men, women and children”.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil expressed her grief over the loss of hundreds of innocent lives at the Al-Ahli Arab hospital, attributing it to “violent and inhumane, barbaric attacks by Hamas.”

These statements indicate a significant shift in Australian politics towards the Israel-Palestine conflict, with senior figures openly criticising Israel’s actions and calling for adherence to international law.