UPDATE: The Victorian Labor Party conference has just passed a resolution demanding the federal government to “immediately” recognize Palestine. This significant move also calls for extending sanctions from two Israeli ministers to the entire Israeli cabinet and ending all military trade with Israel.
The resolution, finalized on October 21, 2023, has ignited a storm of controversy within the party and across Australia. Delegate Nick Dyrenfurth from the Australian Workers Union proposed an alternative motion advocating for a two-state solution that excludes Hamas, which was ultimately rejected. Dyrenfurth expressed his discontent, stating, “This motion represents a massive slap in the face to the Albanese federal government, the Allan state Labor government, and the Victorian Jewish community.”
Dyrenfurth highlighted the lack of consultation with Jewish Labor members in forming the motion, arguing that it disregarded their experiences and concerns. “The movers of this motion have made this conference an unsafe place for Jews,” he asserted, emphasizing the emotional impact on the Jewish community.
The conference also included resolutions to increase aid to UNRWA by $10 million and to protect the right to protest. During a speech by Defence Minister Richard Marles, attendees displayed Palestinian flags, underlining the tension surrounding the discussions.
These motions are non-binding but have drawn sharp criticism from various groups. Peter Wertheim, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, condemned the Victorian Labor branch for its stance, stating, “It has now demonstrated its unfitness to make any pronouncements on the Israel-Palestinian conflict.”
Critics, including Jeremy Leibler, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, echoed these sentiments, insisting that recognition of Palestinian statehood cannot occur until Hamas is disarmed and all hostages are released. “Recognition now would also set up any future Palestinian state for failure,” Leibler warned.
Liberal MP David Southwick added that the resolutions resembled a campaign against Israel rather than a genuine peace initiative. “When Labor endorses anti-Israel activism, it fuels racism on our streets and hate against Victoria’s Jewish community,” he stated, urging for a more balanced approach.
Following the conference, Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized that foreign policy is a federal matter and reiterated the government’s support for a two-state solution.
As the situation develops, the implications of these resolutions are far-reaching, raising questions about the future of Labor’s stance on international issues and its impact on community relations in Victoria.
This urgent situation is a clear indication of the deep divisions within the party and highlights the need for further dialogue and understanding among its members. The Victorian Labor Party’s actions today will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Australia moving forward.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story evolves.
