Australian Humanitarian Organizations Urge $50 Million Funding for Gaza
Amid the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, allowing humanitarian aid to flow to Gaza, twenty-five humanitarian groups are urging the Australian government to provide an additional $50 million to Gaza.
Israel and Hamas recently reached a ceasefire deal that includes the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas in exchange for Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners.
The letter from the humanitarian groups calls on the Australian government to allocate $50 million through Australian humanitarian agencies for immediate humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
The letter also urges the Australian government to diplomatically engage with the Israeli government and international partners to support the continued work of the United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA).
The Israeli Knesset voted to ban UNRWA operations following allegations of involvement in a Hamas attack on Oct. 7, with concern expressed by Australia and other nations about Israel’s actions.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed their commitment to supporting Gaza’s humanitarian needs and rebuilding efforts following the ceasefire agreement in January.
Addressing ongoing social tensions in Australia, particularly targeting of the Jewish community post-Oct. 7, a childcare center in Maroubra was targeted in an antisemitic attack on Jan. 21.
