Israeli embassy’s “absolutely rejecting” Gaza aid: Photos of starving Palestinians “most concerning”
In a private meeting with Israel’s ambassador to Australia, the foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, expressed strong criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and insisted on the urgent need for compliance with international law, as well as increased aid supply to Palestinians.
The meeting with Amir Maimon, Israel’s ambassador, took place in Wong’s office at Parliament House in Canberra and was requested by the Israeli embassy. This discussion followed Australia’s recent stance condemning Israel for its obstruction of humanitarian aid to Palestinians, a stance which Wong said was rooted in the deep concern and distress felt by Australians witnessing images of starving individuals in Gaza.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese further escalated the situation by openly accusing Israel of “clearly” breaching international law, stating that Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is losing international support. In response, Wong pointed out that it is forbidden to withhold aid from civilians, not only because it violates international law but also due to moral obligations.
Despite the Israeli embassy’s reported denial of any famine or starvation in Gaza, both Wong and Albanese have called these claims “beyond comprehension”, especially with the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations attributing the crisis to Israel’s blockade.
Adding to the pressure, rights groups have accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, citing evidence of the weaponization of hunger and mass starvation. These developments have put further strain on Australia’s stance regarding the conflict, with calls mounting for more decisive actions from the government, including potentially reevaluating its position in response to the intensifying humanitarian crisis.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/aug/02/penny-wong-criticised-israel-conduct-in-gaza-private-meeting-ambassador-amir-maimon
