Australia stands with the democracy of Israel and freedom-loving people everywhere. If these attacks were perpetrated against Australia, the public would demand a response. Israel has a right to defend itself and its citizens. We also need to remember and recognise that there are Palestinian people and Muslim communities around the world who are also appalled by this violence and terror and also wish for peace.
Mr GEE (Calare) (20:25): Like other members of this House, I rise to express my solidarity and that of our country with the people of Israel over the outrageous and appalling terrorist attacks that the world has recently witnessed. There can be no excuse or justification for the murder and despicable crimes and atrocities that have been perpetrated by the terror group Hamas, and it must all be called out and denounced: the murder, rape, defilement and hostage taking. This brutal terrorist attack and wanton violence and destruction is indefensible. The murdered and the unaccounted for come from more than 30 countries, including Australia.
Australia stands with the democracy of Israel and freedom-loving people everywhere. If these attacks were perpetrated against Australia, the public would demand a response. Israel has a right to defend itself and its citizens. We also need to remember and recognise that there are Palestinian people and Muslim communities around the world who are also appalled by this violence and terror and also wish for peace. This is a time of great angst and uncertainty for them as well. The loss of every innocent life is both shocking and tragic, no matter the faith or nationality. The thoughts of our nation are with all of those touched by this turmoil, including the families of those who have lost their lives and those who have been injured or taken hostage. All peoples have a right to live in peace and without fear. Respect for international humanitarian law must always be upheld, as should the rules of war.
While in Australia we celebrate freedom of speech, all protests and protesters need to obey the law. The glorification of terror and hate speech at rallies must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. There is no place for it in Australia. This week we have seen repatriation flights carrying Australians fleeing the conflict land on our shores—people escaping unspeakable brutality, people pursuing safety and peace. The attack on Israel has threatened the security of that region and the world. Australians cherish peace and freedom. Tonight we all hope for a swift return of peace, and we join the free and democratic nations of the world in expressing our solidarity and friendship with Israel. Democracies must stand together. Terror must not prevail.