Australia, along with 23 allied nations, has called on Israel to allow urgent humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza, where the crisis has reached what officials describe as “unimaginable levels.” In a joint statement released on [date], Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the politicization of aid efforts, emphasizing that “urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation” within the Palestinian enclave.
The statement stressed the necessity for the Israeli government to authorize all shipments from international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and to enable essential humanitarian actors to operate freely. It read: “Immediate, permanent and concrete steps must be taken to facilitate safe, large-scale access for the UN, international NGOs, and humanitarian partners.”
Gaza has been grappling with dire shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies. The statement further highlighted that all crossings should remain open to allow a significant influx of aid, including food, nutrition supplies, shelter, fuel, and medical equipment. The signatories collectively urged that “lethal force must not be used at distribution sites,” and called for the protection of civilians, humanitarian workers, and medical personnel.
Recent images from Khan Younis depict desperate Palestinians scrambling to collect limited aid supplies delivered via trucks crossing from Israel. The joint statement was backed by nations such as Britain, Canada, France, Japan, and the European Union. It also acknowledged the efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt in advocating for a ceasefire and pursuing peace.
The urgency of this appeal is underscored by the ongoing conflict that has claimed over 60,000 lives, according to Palestinian authorities. Among the casualties are a significant number of women and children. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports that at least 217 individuals have died from starvation, including 100 children. While Israel disputes these figures, it has not provided alternative data, and the United Nations has indicated that the reported death toll is likely accurate, if not conservative.
The conflict escalated following a cross-border attack by the militant group Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the capture of over 250 hostages, according to Israeli officials.
In light of these developments, Australia is expected to address the situation at the upcoming United Nations meeting in September. This move includes a stipulation that Hamas should not play any role in Gaza’s future governance. Meanwhile, the Australian opposition leader, Sussan Ley, has pledged to revoke recognition of a Palestinian state if elected in three years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has intensified his criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that Netanyahu is “in denial” about the war’s consequences in Gaza. The current humanitarian crisis highlights the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate the safe passage of aid and the release of hostages, as articulated in the joint statement by Australia and its allies.
