Australia joins global condemnation of Israel’s Gaza City takeover plan

Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has aligned with several other countries in condemning Israel’s announced plan to take full control of Gaza City through a new ground offensive.

Wong warned that the operation risks violating international law and could further endanger the lives of hostages and civilians in the besieged territory, Caliber.Az reports, referring to British media.

Joining ministers from Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the UK in a joint statement on August 9, Wong highlighted the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where a “worst-case scenario” of mass famine is unfolding. The ministers warned that Israel’s plan, pushed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, would worsen the situation and violate international humanitarian law.

The statement stressed that any attempts by Israel to annexe Gaza or expand settlements would breach international law. It also expressed concern about the potential for mass displacement, as Israel’s war cabinet decided on August 8 to move ahead with the full takeover of Gaza’s largest city, despite opposition from its military leaders. This plan could displace around one million Palestinians.

Germany swiftly reacted by halting deliveries of weapons that might be used in the conflict, signalling growing unease among Israel’s traditional supporters. International law expert Donald Rothwell from the Australian National University noted the significance of Germany’s stance, pointing out that the joint statement’s reference to annexation signals a rising concern about Israel’s long-term intentions in Gaza. He added that such moves could end prospects for a two-state solution.

The joint statement called on both Hamas and Israel to cooperate with the international community to immediately end the fighting through a permanent ceasefire. It stressed the urgent need for massive, unimpeded humanitarian aid, as Gaza faces a looming famine crisis.

The statement also urged Hamas to release all hostages immediately and ensure they are treated humanely, free from cruelty or humiliation. At the same time, it called on Israel to revise its recent restrictions on international humanitarian organisations, which have impeded aid efforts, warning that excluding these groups sends a deeply troubling message.

Hamas responded by accusing Netanyahu of abandoning the hostages taken during its surprise attack on Israel in October 2023, accusing the Israeli leader of sacrificing them for “personal interests and extremist ideology.”

Australia and other nations have called for a political resolution in Gaza that excludes Hamas leadership. Israel, meanwhile, aims to hand control over Gaza to friendly Arab forces opposed to Hamas.

Netanyahu outlined five key goals for the intensified conflict: disarm Hamas, secure the release of hostages, demilitarise Gaza, establish security control over the territory, and set up a new civil administration independent of Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

Minister Wong cautioned that Israel’s planned actions, especially forced displacement, would violate international law. Yet, despite global criticism, Israel remains firm on its plans. Netanyahu’s office told international media that the Israeli military will prepare to take control of Gaza City while attempting to provide humanitarian aid to civilians outside combat zones.

Rothwell emphasised that Israel already functions as an occupying power under the 1949 Geneva Convention and has been acting as such in Gaza for months. Therefore, it is legally required to supply essential resources like food, water, and medical aid to civilians.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was set to discuss the conflict during a meeting with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Queenstown on August 9.

By Tamilla Hasanova