Middle East conflict
Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (09:47): I rise to condemn Benjamin Netanyahu’s government in the strongest possible terms for inflicting continuous suffering on the people of Gaza and for the ongoing killing of civilians, with over 30,000 now dead, including at least 10,000 children. The killing of civilians is wrong, and I again condemn Hamas for the atrocious terrorist attack that happened on 7 October. In line with the United Nations and the federal government I again call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages. My heart aches along with the hearts of my community at the human tragedy we are seeing and at the images of dead and dying children that we bear witness to. I condemn the inhumane blockade preventing aid from reaching millions of displaced, traumatised and starving people, people with nowhere safe to go and nowhere to escape to. To inflict such punishment on an entire population is reprehensible, indefensible and unforgivable. I also condemn any form of hate speech, antisemitism or Islamophobia. People have a right to feel safe. I thank those members of both the Muslim and Jewish communities who are working hard towards a lasting, peaceful and just solution for all. I have been attending meetings organised by Victorian Arabic Social Services and want to thank them and the many in my community for helping the families who have arrived from Gaza, including the City of Hume, Whittlesea Community Connections, Brotherhood of St Laurence, Foundation House, Advocates for Dignity, Australian Multicultural Foundation, Palestine Australia Relief and Action, El Rahman, Selimiye Foundation, MyCentre, Australian Multicultural Community Centre, and Immigration Migration Services Australia.