Canberra: The Australian prime minister has accused Israel of "quite clearly" breaching international law by withholding aid from civilians in Gaza, as reported by local broadcaster ABC. During an interview on the ABC's Insiders program, Anthony Albanese described the devastating scenes in Gaza as "completely indefensible."

According to Anadolu Agency, Albanese emphasized that rules of engagement exist to prevent the loss of innocent lives. He criticized Israel's decision in March to stop food deliveries to Gaza, labeling it a breach of international law. "International law says that you can't hold innocent people responsible for what is a conflict," Albanese stressed.

While discussing France's recent move to recognize a Palestinian state, Albanese stated that Australia has no immediate plans to do the same, although he expressed openness to the idea under certain conditions that ensure the state's sustainability. He clarified that any such decision would be based on progress rather than a mere gesture.

Albanese highlighted the necessity for a viable two-state solution that includes rebuilding efforts in Gaza and the West Bank and addresses the issue of settlements. He expressed grave concern over civilian suffering, pointing out that "a one-year-old-boy is not a Hamas fighter," and condemned the civilian casualties and deaths in Gaza as "completely unacceptable" and "completely indefensible."

Since October 2023, Israel's military campaign in the Gaza Strip has resulted in the deaths of over 59,700 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. The offensive has severely damaged the enclave, causing the health system to collapse and leading to acute food shortages. Gaza faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by the closure of border crossings and a ban on food and medicine since March 2.

In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.