UPDATE: The Australian Greens are calling for immediate action from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong regarding the detention of six Australians on an aid flotilla captured by Israel. Greens Leader Larissa Waters demands the expulsion of Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon if he fails to facilitate their return.
The six Australians were aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to breach the aid blockade into Gaza. As tensions rise, Waters criticized Labor’s response, stating, “I haven’t heard a peep” from the Prime Minister or Wong, and labeled the detentions as “illegal abductions” by Israel.
Currently, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has confirmed that five Australian citizens are detained, with one additional person being a dual Australian-US citizen. Waters insists that if action is not taken soon, “we should be expelling the Israeli ambassador.” She emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure the safety of its citizens, stating, “Surely, that’s their one job.”
Historically, Australia has only expelled an ambassador once since WWII — the former Iranian ambassador in August 2023. Expelling Israel’s ambassador could lead to serious diplomatic ramifications, including the expulsion of Australian consulate staff from Israel.
Waters has called for Wong to summon Maimon immediately, urging him to secure the freedom of the detained Australians. She also highlighted the urgent need for the Australian ambassador in Gaza to ensure their safety, though this role currently does not exist.
In response to the situation, DFAT has engaged in several communications with Israel and has conducted meetings with the detainees. A spokesperson stated, “Australia calls on all parties to respect international law, to ensure the safety and humane treatment of those involved.” They reiterated their concern for the welfare of the detainees, emphasizing the need for Israel to adhere to international norms.
Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Matt Thistlethwaite has expressed grave concern over Israeli drone attacks on the flotilla, urging respect for international and humanitarian law. “Australia is part of the international call on Israel to immediately enable the full resumption of aid into Gaza,” he stated.
The unfolding situation is critical. Families and friends of the detained Australians are anxious for their loved ones’ safety, and the government is under pressure to act decisively. As public sentiment grows, many are watching closely to see how Albanese and his administration will respond.
What’s Next: The international community is closely monitoring the developments. Observers are calling for rapid action to secure the release of the Australians, while the Australian government faces increasing scrutiny over its diplomatic approach. Immediate action from the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister is anticipated, as calls for accountability and assistance continue to escalate.
This urgent situation not only impacts the detained citizens and their families but also has potential repercussions for Australia’s diplomatic relations in the Middle East. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
