The decision by the United Nations to suspend its aid operations in Gaza is alarming and the Australian Government must end its acquiescence to Israel's military operations in Gaza, Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown said today.
"It is time the Australian Government spoke up to defend the right of the United Nations and aid agencies to assist victims of this conflict without being attacked," Senator Brown said.
"The death of a United Nations worker after Israeli forces shelled a UN truck convoy and the bombing of a United Nations school killing 43 people, including children - despite the UN providing the Israeli military with the GPS coordinates of its operations - is unacceptable and should be universally condemned by the Australian Government," Senator Brown said.
"Reports from the Red Cross that Israel has failed to help evacuate the wounded are extremely distressful. More than 760 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds more wounded by this conflict and Australian must call on Israel to ensure aid agencies can operate in Gaza.
"The Prime Minister or acting Prime Minister must stand up for the civilian victims by defending the operations of the United Nations and aid agencies, as well as the right of journalists to access Gaza.
"The Australian Government's backing of the Bush administration's near universal support for Israel's' actions is an abrogation of international and human rights law and will do nothing to bring about peace in the middle east.
"It is time Australia found its independent voice in foreign policy. The international community must work together for an immediate ceasefire," Senator Brown said.
The Greens have consistently condemned violence from both sides including the rocket attacks on Israel.
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