Australian PM Anthony Albanese has come out and said that Israel is largely to blame for the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a recent press briefing, he made clear that the current moment demands urgent, bold action. He urged moving from the humanitarian crisis to a clearer description of a desirable end state, such as a two-state solution which understands that a Palestinian state must exist.
Albanese’s comments come in the wake of increasing international concern regarding the humanitarian toll in Gaza, described by his government as having “gone beyond the world’s worst fears.” He denounced the mounting civilian casualties and deaths, arguing that results like this are “absolutely unacceptable.” The Prime Minister reiterated Israel’s moral responsibility to comply with international law, stating, “comply immediately with its obligations under international law.”
Humanitarian Concerns and Moral Responsibility
In his keynote speech the Prime Minister called out the horrific humanitarian situation in Gaza, saying it was innocent civilians, including children, who are now paying the price. Yet he painted an indelible picture of what sparked his grim concern and that of many more. He insisted, “A one-year-old child is not a Hamas terrorist.” This declaration highlights his condemnation of the current violence as well as its desperate toll on non-combatants.
Albanese over the weekend similarly called for Israel to allow more humanitarian assistance into the civilian Palestinian population in Gaza. He also called on the Israeli government to work with international organizations to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need. Albanese articulated a clear message: “Does Israel have a moral responsibility? Yes. Should Israel be getting more aid into the civilians of Gaza? Absolutely.”
He further underscored that Israel’s use of a blockade and food delivery as a weapon was against international law. In addition, he contended that these measures violate human dignity. He remarked, “Quite clearly it is a breach of international law to stop food being delivered,” adding that “it’s a breach of decent humanity and of morality.”
The Path Forward: Two-State Solution
Albanese said it’s vital to the recognition of a Palestinian state to be included in any settlement reached that ends the years-long conflict. He emphasized that advocacy on this topic has been ongoing for more than a decade. “This has been a process that has been there for 10 years, the review process,” he stated.
He strongly stressed the importance of creating a Palestinian state. This new state must not only work, it cannot be a continued threat to Israel’s existence. “You need to recognize a Palestinian state as part of moving forward,” he said. His comments are indicative of a rising tide among lawmakers calling for a diplomatic resolution that brings both parties to the table.
Specifically, the Prime Minister liked to brag about his phone call with then-U.S. Yet, they did not take up this concern point directly in their discussions. He even admitted that Trump raised it on their calls. He didn’t have the exact details fresh in his mind from their three discussions.
“Donald Trump did raise it at the so-called Liberation Day, of course, he raised it publicly. So his views were well known,” – Anthony Albanese
Political Reactions and Broader Implications
Reactions to Albanese’s statements have ranged from bemusement to delight among his political opponents and other interested parties. Senator Michaelia Cash criticized Albanese’s approach, arguing that he has failed to adequately hold Hamas accountable for initiating the conflict. She stated, “I think the unfortunate reality for Mr. Albanese is he continues to fail to lay the blame for the ongoing war in Gaza directly at the feet of the terrorists who commenced it.”
Cash conceded that Israel has a responsibility to stop the violence but emphasized that addressing the root of the crisis must be done proportionately. “Should Israel be getting more aid into the civilians of Gaza? Absolutely,” she said. This humanitarian perspective throws into sharp relief an active international debate about the need to balance humanitarian compassion with security concerns.
Albanese emphasized that his government acted unilaterally to raise restrictions on American imported beef. He assured that the decision was not made as a result of any conversations with Trump. He explicitly stated that this policy was distinct from their discussions about what was happening in Gaza.
