The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), the peak body for humanitarian agencies is horrified at the rising bombardment and civilian death toll in Northern Gaza over the last several days. ACFID urges the Australian Government to assert accountability and apply autonomous sanctions on Israeli officials engaged in killing civilians, consistent with the approach it has taken towards other combatants committing war crimes.

More than 400,000 remain trapped in Northern Gaza but are unable to move as the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) press on with their ground assault and siege tactics on the area. The United Nations Human Rights Office has said crossings into northern Gaza have been closed and no food or other essential supplies have entered since Oct 1.  

“Engaging in siege tactics of civilians, sealing people off from humanitarian assistance and causing further starvation are all illegal under the Geneva Conventions,” said Marc Purcell, ACFID’s Chief Executive Officer. 

“All States, including Australia have an obligation to prevent the crimes of starvation and forcible transfer. This includes targeted sanctions, and the immediate implementation of an arms materials embargo,” said Naomi Brooks, ACFID’s Humanitarian Lead.  

“The Australian Government has implemented sanctions on 200 Iran – linked individuals and entities. Despite over 40,000 deaths in Gaza, the Australian Government has not yet sanctioned any Israeli government or military officials. This now looks like a lack of consistency and proportionality in how we hold governments committing gross human rights violations to account.”  

“After over a year of conflict, we have continued to see atrocities throughout Gaza, including horrific scenes at Al-Aqsa hospital where civilians were burned alive. The human toll has been beyond catastrophic. We urgently need a ceasefire,” said Ms Brooks.  

ACFID continues to call for an immediate ceasefire, unrestrained humanitarian access, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the protection of civilians. 

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Will Devine at 0401 721 064 or at [email protected]