Australia: Australia has issued a stern warning to Israel, advising against a military takeover of Gaza, stating that such actions would exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region. Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the importance of restraint in a statement, urging Israel not to pursue this path.
According to Anadolu Agency, Wong highlighted the necessity of a two-state solution as the only viable route to achieve lasting peace, advocating for the coexistence of an independent Palestinian state and the State of Israel within recognized international borders. This warning from Canberra comes as Israel, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership, has approved a plan to assume control over Gaza, a region ravaged by conflict since October 2023.
The office of Prime Minister Netanyahu has signaled preparations for Israeli forces to take control of Gaza City, as indicated by recent satellite imagery showing a buildup of troops and equipment near the Gaza border. This development suggests the potential for a renewed ground invasion of the Palestinian territory.
Israeli ground operations in Gaza have been a recurring event since October 2023, interspersed with temporary ceasefires. The Israeli Security Cabinet has outlined five primary objectives to conclude the conflict: dismantling Hamas, securing the return of hostages, demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, maintaining Israeli security control, and establishing a civilian government independent of Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.
This extensive military operation, anticipated to last at least six months, proceeds despite international condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza, where over 61,200 people have lost their lives since October 2023. The destructive campaign has left the region on the brink of famine.
In a related legal context, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.
In another development, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba conducted a phone conversation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to discuss the evolving situation in the Middle East, amidst growing calls for the recognition of a Palestinian state. The Japanese Prime Minister's office reported that the two leaders also covered other international issues, including economic matters, and reiterated their commitment to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
Albanese is under increasing domestic pressure to recognize a Palestinian state, especially as allies like France, Canada, and the UK have expressed intentions to do so, with formal announcements anticipated at the UN General Assembly in September. Albanese recently had his first conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas since the escalation of conflict in Gaza.
Moreover, the Japanese statement noted Ishiba's approval of Australia's decision to select the upgraded Japanese Mogami-class frigate for the Royal Australian Navy, a deal valued at A$10 billion ($6.5 billion). The agreement involves the construction of three frigates in Japan, with delivery expected in 2029, while eight additional frigates will be built in Australia.