Australia FM sends message to Israeli ambassador after ‘catastrophe’ near Gaza aid trucks
Foreign Minister Penny Wong has asked her department to tell the Israeli ambassador Australia is “horrified” at reports that Israeli troops opened fire on Palestinians waiting for aid in Gaza, killing more than 100.
“Australia is horrified by today’s catastrophe in Gaza and the ongoing humanitarian crisis that has led to it,” Senator Wong said in a social media post.
“These events underscore why for months Australia has been calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Civilians must be protected. Humanitarian aid must reach civilians in desperate need.”
Gaza Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra said the incident took place in the northern part of the enclave, which has been largely isolated during the conflict.
Trucks carrying food reached northern Gaza this week, the first major aid delivery to the area in a month, officials said on Wednesday.
Senator Wong said the government was providing $46.5 million in humanitarian assistance and would announce “additional urgent support… in coming days.”
