2018-05-15
Leader of the Australian Greens Dr Richard Di Natale today condemned the Israeli military’s killing of more than 50 Palestinians upon the opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem.
“The Australian Greens condemn in the strongest possible terms this latest example of the Israeli military’s excessive use of force,” Senator Di Natale said.
“Yesterday marked the deadliest day in Gaza since the 2014 war, with more than 50 Palestinians killed.
“We are distressed that almost 100 mostly unarmed Palestinian protestors have reportedly been killed by Israeli forces since the end of March on the border with Gaza, including at least four minors and two journalists.
“It is deplorable that the Liberal and Labor parties have remained silent in the face of the Israeli Government’s excessive use of force. What will it take for them to speak up? They must condemn this disproportionate response against Palestinians exercising their legitimate and important right to engage in non-violent protest.
“Donald Trump’s decision to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem is a body blow to the peace process and the Palestinian people. Trump is intent on inflaming tensions, yet the Turnbull Government has repeatedly refused to stand with the rest of the world and speak out against this move.
“It’s well past time for both the old parties to recognise the state of Palestine alongside the state of Israel.”
Media Release Foreign Affairs