During a visit to New Zealand, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed his concern over the potential escalation of conflict in the Middle East, specifically urging against the entry of Israeli troops into Gaza City. This statement follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement of intentions to establish “full military control” over the Gaza Strip, focusing on its capital, Gaza City.
In Queenstown, Albanese, alongside New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, paid tribute to ANZAC troops by laying a wreath, highlighting the ongoing global efforts to prevent further casualties in the Middle East. Albanese firmly stated, “The idea that it can just be continued is completely unacceptable,” reflecting serious apprehensions about the violence.
Tragic events continue in Gaza, where a 15-year-old boy was killed amidst aid deliveries. In Tel Aviv, families of hostages held by Hamas marched, voicing concerns that an extended military operation could jeopardise their loved ones’ chances of release. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke criticized the idea that military strength against Hamas requires harshness towards Palestinian civilians, deeming it a “ridiculous proposition.” Meanwhile, Opposition Home Affairs spokesperson Andrew Hastie remarked on the historical context, noting that Israel has never successfully occupied Gaza.
Amidst the tensions, Albanese confirmed that Australia has sanctioned relevant Israeli authorities but clarified that no further sanctions are currently planned. Moreover, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated that Australia is not providing arms to Israel.
As the Albanese government considers formally recognising Palestine, the lack of similar recognition from the United States may limit the collaborative effectiveness among allies. Reports indicate that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening, with health officials revealing that 20 Palestinians seeking assistance were killed recently, and 11 adult deaths were attributed to malnutrition in just 24 hours.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported a grim total of 114 adult malnutrition-related deaths since June, along with 98 children, during a period marked by heightened conflict following Hamas’s attacks on Israel starting October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals.
These harrowing statistics highlight the dire conditions in Gaza, where the Department of Health, operated under Hamas, claims that around half of the reported 61,300 Palestinian casualties are women and children, yet does not delineate between combatants and civilians. The United Nations and various independent experts regard this ministry as a reliable source for war casualty estimates.
Overall, the voices from both Australian leaders and international officials reflect a growing urgency to address the humanitarian needs in Gaza while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the region.