Australia Condemns Israel’s Gaza Offensive Plans
International Pressure Mounts Over Proposed Ground Push
Australia’s foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, has joined a chorus of international criticism regarding Israel’s planned ground offensive and control of Gaza. She warned that such actions risk violating international law and escalating dangers for hostages and civilians alike.
Global Ministers Voice Concerns
Penny Wong, alongside her counterparts from Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the UK, issued a joint statement condemning Benjamin Netanyahu‘s intentions to control Gaza City. They stated these plans would worsen an already critical situation.
“The plans that the government of Israel has announced risk violating international humanitarian law. Any attempts at annexation or of settlement extension violate international law,” the statement said.
—Joint Statement by Foreign Ministers
The ministers added that such moves would “aggravate the catastrophic humanitarian situation, endanger the lives of the hostages, and further risk the mass displacement of civilians.” The statement highlighted that a “worst-case scenario” of widespread famine was already unfolding in Gaza.
Escalation Sparks Outrage
Benjamin Netanyahu‘s war cabinet approved the further escalation of the conflict, which has lasted 22 months. The plan for a full takeover of Gaza’s largest city could lead to the mass displacement of approximately one million Palestinians.
This decision has ignited global condemnation, although it has not been opposed by US President Donald Trump, a key international supporter of Netanyahu.
Germany has responded by suspending military exports potentially usable in the conflict. Professor Donald Rothwell of the Australian National University noted the significance of Germany’s participation, given its consistent support for Israel throughout the conflict.
Rothwell commented that the joint statement’s reference to “annexation or settlement” in Gaza signals growing apprehension among these nations about Israel’s long-term objectives for the territory. He emphasized that annexation or settlement expansion would effectively end prospects for a “Two-State solution.”
Call for Ceasefire and Aid
Wong and her counterparts urged both Hamas and the Israeli government to collaborate with the international community to achieve an immediate and lasting ceasefire. This, they stated, must facilitate substantial, prompt, and unrestricted humanitarian aid delivery.
The statement demanded that Hamas release all hostages without delay or preconditions, ensuring their humane treatment. It also called on Israel to revise its registration system for international humanitarian organizations, allowing vital aid efforts to continue.
“Hamas must release all hostages without further delay or precondition and must ensure they are humanely treated and not subject to cruelty and humiliation,” the statement said.
—Joint Statement by Foreign Ministers
Hamas criticized Netanyahu‘s plans, accusing him of abandoning surviving hostages to pursue personal and ideological aims. Israel has outlined five key objectives for the intensified fighting, including disarming Hamas, returning hostages, demilitarizing Gaza, and establishing an alternative administration not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.
Penny Wong reiterated that Israel should avoid its proposed course of action, warning that permanent forced displacement would contravene international law. Despite international calls, Israel appears undeterred.
Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office indicated the Israeli army would prepare to “take control of Gaza City while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside combat zones.” Professor Rothwell reminded that Israel, as an occupying power under the 1949 Geneva Convention, is obligated to supply essential resources to Gaza’s civilians.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was scheduled to discuss the ongoing conflict with his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon.
