2023-10-11
Leader of the Australian Greens Adam Bandt MP has condemned instances of hate and bigotry in Australia, and expressed concern over civilian deaths in Israel and Palestine.
There have been reports of an antisemitic attack in Melbourne overnight, while Australian supporters of Palestine have shared harrowing examples of Islamophobia online.
The Greens say that amid this painful time, antisemitism and Islamophobia are unacceptable.
Lines attributable to Adam Bandt MP, Leader of the Australian Greens:
“This is a painful time for the Jewish and Palestinian communities in Australia, who must be able to grieve the loss of loved ones and publicly express solidarity for those trying to stay safe back home, and antisemitic and Islamophobic attacks on Australia’s Jewish and Palestinian communities must stop," Mr Bandt said.
“This war has brought pain and grief to so many, and there is no place to worsen that through hateful and violent racism and bigotry, including antisemitism and Islamophobia.
“There is no place for antisemitism or Islamophobia in the push to end the occupation of Palestine and build a lasting peace.
“I’m particularly concerned about reports of an antisemitic attack in Melbourne, the abhorrent Islamophobia expressed at supporters of Palestine, and the attempt of a small group to hijack a rally in support of Palestine, who the rally organisers have rightly condemned as ‘vile antisemitic attendees’. As we fight to end the occupation, the Greens oppose all forms of racism and discrimination in Australia and internationally.
“Amid reports of civilian deaths in Israel and Palestine, there must be an immediate ceasefire between the State of Israel and Hamas and an end to the occupation to ensure a lasting peace. The premeditated targeting of civilians by Hamas is a war crime, as is the bombing of Palestinian civilians by the State of Israel. All perpetrators of war crimes in this conflict must be held to account for their actions in accordance with international law. The Greens condemn the attacks and we condemn the occupation.
“For there to be a lasting peace there must be an end to the State of Israel's illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories.”