Grassroots Labor members are increasing internal pressure on the government regarding its positions on the Middle East and Aukus. They are urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to make significant foreign policy adjustments should he win a second term. Labor Friends of Palestine is advocating for a re-elected Albanese government to impose sanctions on Israel, while the Labor Against War group wants the government to abandon its agreement to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines.
The government remains staunch on both issues, highlighting a division between segments of the Labor membership and the parliamentary wing. As the conflict in Gaza continues, Labor’s pro-Palestine lobby is pushing for a tougher stance against Benjamin Netanyahu’s Israeli government and recognition of Palestinian statehood, in line with the party’s national platform.
In a statement to be released, the Labor Friends of Palestine group acknowledges the government’s actions thus far, including support for a UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and backing for the aid agency Unrwa. However, the group claims these efforts fall short of what Labor branches and state conferences have called for.
Three requests are made of a second-term Albanese government, including condemnation of Israel’s “genocidal war” in Gaza and the occupation in the West Bank, imposition of sanctions on Israel until it ends the occupation of Palestinian territories, and cessation of military cooperation with Israel.
The issue of Palestinian statehood has sparked tensions within the Albanese government, culminating in Senator Fatima Payman quitting the party. Prime Minister Albanese recently reiterated the government’s support for a two-state solution but stated that Hamas’s presence in Gaza means it is not the right time to recognize Palestine.
In response to Labor Friends of Palestine’s requests, a spokesperson for Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong stated that Australia has been working with partners to pressure Israel to fulfill its obligations. The spokesperson also emphasized the government’s firm stance that Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are unlawful and a barrier to peace.
Regarding Aukus, Labor has been divided, with party elders and grassroots members opposing the security pact deepening Australia’s military ties with the US. Calls to rethink or abandon Aukus have intensified since Donald Trump’s US election win. Labor Against War has written to Labor MPs and candidates questioning their stance on the deal. Defense Minister Richard Marles defended Aukus, stating it presents an opportunity to address global security challenges and contribute to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Marcus Strom, convener of Labor Against War, stated that internal resistance to Aukus is growing and called for a returned ALP government to reject the deal.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/09/gaza-and-aukus-nuclear-sub-deal-divide-labor-and-grassroots-groups
