As we mark the grim one-year anniversary of Israel’s genocide in Gaza – an anniversary that could have been prevented had nations fulfilled their legal obligations to intervene – we are compelled to confront the harsh reality of inaction by the international community, including Australia.
For the past year, we have witnessed the devastating and brazen brutality of the Israeli state as it has engaged in the genocide and terrorism of Palestinians in Gaza.
Israel has killed more than 41,689 Palestinians, and injured 96,625 more people, many in ways that will change the course of the rest of their lives.
There are still thousands of people buried under rubble who have not yet been identified, and the indirect death toll resulting from this violence, and its health implications, has been conservatively estimated at approximately 186,000 Palestinians. That is, eight per cent of the 2.3 million population of Gaza.
As Israel’s systematic mass killing of Palestinians in Gaza has continued, the Palestinian community across this continent and the globe has endured the devastating impact of systemic racism and oppression.
Community members have faced daily attempts by the political establishment, mainstream media, police, workplaces, organisations and educational institutions to silence, smear, demonise and censor them in their demands for government action and justice for Palestinians.
Amid this despair and discrimination, the steadfastness of the Palestinian people shines through, bolstered by a powerful solidarity movement across Australia.
We have witnessed hundreds of thousands mobilising in cities and towns nationwide, demanding justice and amplifying Palestinian voices. This movement is a testament to the strength of community care and the commitment to stand against injustice.
Despite this community outpouring of solidarity, however, Australia refuses to act to help put an end to Israel’s genocide.
From refusing to impose sanctions or an arms embargo on Israel, to freezing vital funding to UNRWA, to abstaining on crucial UN votes, the Australian Government has consistently prioritised political expediency over the human rights of Palestinians and international legal obligations.
The Australian Government’s continued support for Israel amidst this rogue state’s ongoing atrocities reflects a troubling complicity that cannot be ignored.
It is imperative that the Australian Government take immediate and meaningful action – impose sanctions on Israel, put an end to the two-way arms trade, end political and economic support for Israel, and align Australian foreign policy with international law and humanitarian obligations.
As we commemorate this solemn anniversary, we wrap our arms around the Palestinian community on this continent in care, love and hope.
And we call to action all people of good conscience on this continent. Stand up for a world where human rights are prioritised, and where the voices of the oppressed are heard, championed and respected, paving the way for justice, equality, and true liberation for all.
Free Palestine, from the river to the sea.