65 Australians Still Remain in Gaza After 20 Departed Overnight
Approximately 20 Australians were able to cross the Rafah border into Egypt with the assistance of Australian consular officials and regional diplomats. According to Foreign Affairs Assistant Minister Tim Watts, about 65 Australians remain in Gaza, while the rest have left. Mr. Watts expressed relief regarding the successful crossings and acknowledged the significant efforts of Australian consular officials and diplomats in the region. Australian consular officials in Egypt have met with the 20 Australians who crossed the border and are helping them with their ongoing travel arrangements.
The remaining 65 Australians in Gaza are receiving consular assistance from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in their efforts to cross the Rafah border as soon as possible. The situation on the ground in Gaza is extremely challenging and constantly changing, but DFAT is committed to providing support and ensuring the safety of all Australians involved. DFAT also emphasized its willingness to continue supporting individuals who are unable or do not wish to leave Gaza.
The recent developments have occurred amidst the Israeli government’s declaration of war against Hamas and the tragic attack on Israeli civilians, which resulted in numerous casualties. The United Nations agency Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini also expressed the unprecedented scale of tragedy in Gaza and called for a meaningful humanitarian response.
Regarding the Australians who managed to leave Gaza, Mr. Watts highlighted the emotional support they received from consular officials. Additionally, the travel arrangements varied depending on each individual’s desires and intentions. Commercial options are currently available for travel, and there is no current demand for repatriation flights or assistance from the Australian Defence Force (ADF). However, the ADF has deployed additional personnel and aircraft to the Middle East to provide contingency support.
Approximately 2,000 Australians have now left Israel and the Palestinian territories, either returning to Australia or seeking safety elsewhere in the region. Mr. Watts strongly advised Australians in Lebanon to leave immediately, as the situation there remains uncertain and could impede government assistance for departures. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong acknowledged that more work needs to be done to ensure the safe return of Australians from Gaza, and the government is prepared to provide ongoing consular assistance if the Rafah crossing opens again.
Ms. Wong also stressed the international community’s expectation for restraint and the protection of civilian lives in conflict zones, urging Israel to heed the calls for peace and safety.
