An open letter from Australians for Humanity urges the government to suspend diplomatic relations with Israel until it complies with international law and humanitarian standards.

We write on behalf of Australians for Humanity, the working group representing many people in our nation who want international law upheld to protect the global community. We wish to express our deep concern regarding Australia’s ongoing diplomatic relations, defence agreements and trade with Israel, given that nation’s repeated breaches of international law.

Since 2023 we have advocated for the Australian Government to distance itself from the Netanyahu regime because of its ruthless disregard for civilian life in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon and Iran. Its actions have raised significant moral, ethical and legal issues because the Israel Defence Force is responsible for death, injury and destruction on a scale not seen since World War 2. Israel’s illegal military attacks have been condemned by the global community, and the United Nations with two international courts currently investigating war crimes and genocide.

Recent attacks on Iran and Lebanon have resulted in the closure of the Gulf of Hormuz, impacting Australians directly and contributing to higher costs of living as well as disturbing uncertainty about fuel and fertiliser supplies. The resulting instability is affecting the wellbeing of our families and businesses across the nation, as many are struggling to manage rising expenses and unpredictable access to essential resources. Australians are now being held hostage to the war agenda of Israel, our so-called friend and ally.

While the United States administration appears committed to the current ceasefire, the ongoing actions of the Netanyahu regime are determined by an obsessive hatred of its neighbours, destabilising efforts towards peace and security. Actions of the Netanyahu regime remain driven by destabilising efforts towards peace and security consequent upon its desire for a greater Israel reflected in its refusal to end the illegal occupation of Palestine and its rejection of the two-state solution as advocated by many nations including Australia which recognises the state of Palestine.

Given the gravity of these impacts, we urge you to suspend Australia’s diplomatic relations with Israel until there is clear evidence of its compliance with international law and humanitarian standards, which are the essential characteristics of a democratic nation. Steps have already been taken by Ireland, Spain and Italy.

Australians can no longer pretend we “share our values" with the Netanyahu regime so, to protect our own community, as well as demonstrate our commitment to international law, it is time Australia acted now to clearly show why we can no longer work in harmony with the current Israel administration.

Such a move would send a strong message about our nation’s commitment to the wellbeing of Australians as well as civilians still being targeted by Israel in the Middle East. Nations around the world cannot assure their citizens of stability within their borders while Israel continues to act as a rogue state undermining the global economy.

We urge you to act promptly to demonstrate that the Australian Government will not accept any undermining of international law and will always strongly advocate for recognition of our common humanity.

Please sign the Open letter to the Australian Prime Minister – Call for withdrawal of diplomatic relations with Israel

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