International Conference on Humanitarian Relief for Palestinian civilians in Gaza

Excellencies,

It is impossible to view the harrowing images in Israel and Gaza with anything less than distress and horror.

Some 1,400 Israelis were killed by Hamas on 7 October, the biggest loss of Jewish life on any day since the Holocaust.

We condemn these terrorist attacks unequivocally: they cannot and should not be justified.

With more than 200 people still held captive, we call for Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages.

In Israel's response to those attacks, thousands of Palestinians have been killed, including more than 3,500 children, as reported by UNICEF.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire and worsens by the day.

Australia has contributed $25m in aid for Gazans through trusted partners including Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and UNICEF.

This is in addition to the $20 million provided to UNRWA this year.

But we gather here today because not enough of our collective support is reaching those who need it. 

Food, water, medicine, fuel and other essential assistance must reach people in desperate need, and civilians must be able to get to safety.

This is why so many countries, like Australia, have been calling for humanitarian pauses on hostilities as a necessary first step.

We thank all those trying to keep the Rafah crossing open and reiterate our call for safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access, and safe passage for humanitarian workers.

Excellencies

We know it is not possible to assure the interests of Israelis without also assuring the same for Palestinians.

And so Australia is part of the international effort toward a political process leading to a just and enduring two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live securely and prosperously within secure borders.