Australia calls for end to war on besieged Gaza

AMMAN — Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called for an end to the war in Gaza, emphasising Australia's role in international efforts for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid delivery to the besieged strip.

In a press statement released by the Australian embassy in Amman on Tuesday, cited by the Jordan News Agency, Petra, Wong stressed Australia's commitment to the Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza conference, hosted by the Kingdom. 

On behalf of Wong, Australia's delegation at the conference is led by Minister for Early Childhood Education and Youth Anne Aly.

“The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic,” Aly said, noting that over one million Palestinians are facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity and around 1.7 million people have been displaced several times, and humanitarian access remains grossly inadequate.

Aly highlighted that Australia's participation underscores its continued support for diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

She added that Australia has been advocating for urgent humanitarian assistance to reach Palestinians in desperate need. 

"We have been clear that Israel must comply with the binding orders of the International Court of Justice, including enabling the provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance at scale," the statement added.

Since the outbreak of the Israeli aggression on Gaza on October 7, Australia has committed $62.5 million in humanitarian aid to the besieged strip, including $41 million for urgent needs in Gaza. This assistance targets those affected by the war, focusing on women and children, and provides support for food, water, medicine, and shelter, according to the embassy statement.