Australia states its case
The Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne has called for a resumption of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians with a two-pronged request for each party on the day the world awaits Israel’s move on the restoration of sovereignty over Judea and Samaria.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne
In a statement, Marise Payne said the Australian Government “is a longstanding supporter of a two-state solution, in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist, in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders”.
She said the prospects for a negotiated two-state solution needed “all parties to refrain from
- acts of violence and terrorism including rocket attacks on civilians, and
- land appropriations, demolitions, and settlement activity.”
She added: “In this context, we are following with concern possible moves towards the unilateral annexation or change in status of territory on the West Bank.
The focus needs to be on a return to direct and genuine negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians for a durable and resilient peace arrangement, as soon as possible.
Australia has raised our concerns with Israel in relation to indications of annexations, and I have done so directly with my Israeli counterpart.”
Zionist Federation of Australia President Jeremy Leibler said: “I note the concerns of both the government and opposition on the matter – both good friends and strong supporters of the State of Israel. However, 1 July has come and gone and no Israeli plan has been announced and, without details of any such plan, it is impossible to determine its impact (if any) on the viability of a future Palestinian state.
This is a complex issue with strong views held within the Jewish and international community. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and make our position clear if and when Israel announces a proposal.”
Well said Foreign Minister Marise Payne. Senator Payne is a moderate and not a hot head. She is a very experienced senior parliamentarian who has been a member of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia for over 2 decades. Two of Australians most senior ministries, the other being Defence, are held by women too.
It’s sad that Australia subscribes to a theory of a two state solution which is obviously not viable. What does it take to admit reality that the Palestinians will never accept Israel. Many instances of evidence since Israel was formed. Also read past history. Judea and Samaria aren’t being annexed. They’ve always been part of the Jewish homeland. There’s no international law to contradict this!!