Middle East conflict
David DAVIS (Southern Metropolitan) (14:02): I think we are at a very difficult point in Australia’s relationship with Israel. I think the Prime Minister has made the wrong decision, and I think foreign minister Penny Wong’s extreme pro-Palestinian position is a concern. I think this has happened because people have believed there are legitimate questions about how the activities in Gaza have been conducted, and no government or no military is beyond legitimate question. However, I think we have to step back and say Israel has been under permanent threat for a very long period. The terrible happenings on 7 October 2024 should not be forgotten. We should not forget the fears that are there and the need to deal with Hamas, a recognised terrorist organisation.
I do not believe there should be recognition with Hamas in place. I do not believe that there should be recognition until every hostage is returned, and that is not the way the Australian government is saying this. The Australian government is pointing at Israel. They should be pointing at Hamas. They should be pointing at the failures of the Palestinian Authority. The fact is Australia and Israel should be friends, and we have been for so many years. I think this government is taking an opportunity to work against Israel, and it is wrong.