Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world.
In light of the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, we, the undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition, urge Israel to allow immediate independent foreign media access and afford protection for journalists operating in Gaza.
Today, the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom have announced sanctions and other measures targeting Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Australia is pressing Israel to reform its coordination with humanitarian organisations to protect civilians and aid workers, following Special Adviser Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin’s report on the deaths of Zomi Frankcom and her World Central Kitchen colleagues.
The objective of this appointment was to advise on the sufficiency and appropriateness of measures taken by Israel to transparently investigate, report and respond to the events leading to the deaths of Ms Frankcom and her colleagues, including holding those responsible to account.
Australia will lift its temporary pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), following steps to strengthen the integrity of UNRWA operations.
The undersigned condemn Houthi interference with navigational rights and freedoms in the waters around the Arabian Peninsula, particularly the Red Sea.
The Australian Government has secured additional assisted-departure flights for Australians affected by the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs announces the Australian Government will begin the assisted-departure of Australians affected by the situation in Israel and Gaza.
