Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned Israel’s restriction on humanitarian aid into Gaza, labeling it an “affront to common decency.” His remarks come as Australia joins 29 other nations in a joint statement demanding that Israel urgently allow aid into the beleaguered region. The statement highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis, stating, “The humanitarian suffering in Gaza has reached unimaginable levels. Famine is unfolding before our eyes.”
Albanese further stressed that humanitarian aid should never be politicised, asserting that Israel’s blockade is inconsistent with international law. Speaking to ABC radio on Wednesday, he remarked, “It’s certainly not something that’s consistent with international law. We’re also seeing people killed while trying to get access to food and water. Now, in 2025, that’s completely unacceptable.” He emphasized that the situation in Gaza represents a grave crisis of human rights and dignity.
Israel has countered claims regarding the aid blockade, attributing the lack of food in Gaza to Hamas, accusing them of diverting aid shipments. While Israeli officials maintain that there is no starvation among the population, international human rights organizations have reported a significant reduction in food supplies to Gaza over recent months.
Australia’s stance on Palestine has shifted, with the Prime Minister announcing plans to recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming September 2025 UN General Assembly. This decision aligns Australia with countries such as the UK, France, and Canada, marking a divergence from the longstanding position of the US, which has historically opposed formal recognition of Palestine.
Despite this change, the White House has refrained from directly criticizing Australia’s recognition of Palestine. A spokesperson indicated that President Donald Trump maintains an open mind on the status of Palestine but does not endorse statehood.
Albanese acknowledged the importance of US involvement in peace negotiations, noting Trump’s long-standing advocacy for peace in the Middle East. While some analysts have expressed concern that Australia’s decision may strain its relationship with the US, Jessica Genauer, an international relations expert at Flinders University, suggested that Australia’s timing mitigates potential backlash.
“Because Australia waited until other important countries all said they’re planning to recognize Palestine, I don’t think it will be singled out by the US,” Genauer stated. She added that the Trump administration’s opposition to such recognitions would likely see Australia grouped with other nations rather than facing isolation.
As Australia prepares to join over 140 UN member states in recognizing Palestine, opposition leaders have voiced their discontent. Sussan Ley, the Opposition Leader, criticized Albanese for focusing on Palestinian recognition, arguing that it does not contribute to global safety. Ley has pledged to reverse the recognition decision if her party wins the next election.
Crossbench senator Fatima Payman, who defected from the Labor Party in 2024, welcomed the recognition of Palestinian statehood but emphasized that it must lead to tangible actions. “Symbolism matters, but saving lives matters more,” she stated, highlighting the need for sustained pressure on Israel.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, the international community looks to Australia’s evolving stance and the implications it may hold for future diplomatic relations and humanitarian efforts.
