AIJAC Slams Albanese’s Gaza Stance as Disappointing

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In July 2025, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza as “completely indefensible,” highlighting the humanitarian impact of aid blockades and civilian casualties. He called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed commitment to a two-state solution, emphasizing that “every innocent life matters” and urging Israel to comply with international law.

The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC), through its Executive Director Dr Colin Rubenstein, issued a sharp response. While acknowledging the Prime Minister’s support for Israel’s right to self-defence, AIJAC criticized his remarks as lacking nuance and disproportionately focused on Israeli actions. The council emphasized that Hamas’s October 7, 2023, terrorist attack, which killed approximately 1,200 Israelis, initiated the conflict and remains a central obstacle to peace.

Rubenstein argued that Albanese’s failure to explicitly condemn Hamas’s tactics—including obstruction of humanitarian aid and the use of civilian infrastructure for military operations—undermines efforts to resolve the crisis and risks encouraging the group to prolong hostilities. AIJAC warned that such statements could signal to Hamas that international pressure is solely directed at Israel, thereby discouraging compromise.

AIJAC also expressed concern over the Australian Labor Party’s foreign policy approach, especially its apparent hesitation to join international allies such as the United Kingdom, France, and Canada in issuing firm responses to Israel’s actions. Critics contend this reluctance may be perceived as diplomatic indecision and could embolden anti-Israel sentiment at home and abroad.

The council further noted the impact of the Gaza conflict on Australia’s Jewish community. Between October 2023 and September 2024, antisemitic incidents in Australia reportedly rose by 316 percent, heightening communal anxiety. AIJAC cautioned that government rhetoric focusing solely on Israeli conduct, without equally addressing terrorist violence from Hamas, risks deepening divisions and alienating Jewish Australians.

Additionally, AIJAC warned against premature recognition of Palestinian statehood without adequate assurances on security and governance. The council argued that such moves could derail long-term peace efforts if they fail to address the continued influence of terrorist actors and the lack of a negotiated agreement between the parties.

In sum, AIJAC’s response reflects broader concerns over the Australian government’s stance on the Israel–Gaza conflict. The council maintains that a balanced, security-conscious approach remains essential to achieving a sustainable resolution and preserving communal harmony within Australia.