It’s been almost 2 years since Israel’s military bombardment of Gaza escalated. Tens of thousands of Palestinian people have been killed by senseless violence while two million more are on the brink of starvation, being deliberately denied access to humanitarian assistance by Israel. The International Court of Justice has even raised warnings of genocide and breaches of international law.[1] Australia can be a country that stands up against injustice and violence. But your government refuses to take decisive action against Israel. In doing so, you are making Australia complicit. In doing so, you are making me complicit.

I do not accept this. I refuse to be a bystander. You are not acting in my name.

• The Australian Government making political statements without a commitment to diplomatic, legal or economic measures that hold Israel accountable for their violations of international law? Not in my name.[3]
• The Australian Government allowing Israel to test “high precision” and “lethal” drones that were designed and built in Australia while Palestinians are continuously targeted by Israeli military? Not in my name.[4]
• The Australian Government continuing to enable the supply of parts for F-35 jets that are being used in the military bombardment of Gaza, including dropping bombs on supposedly safe zones? Not in my name.[5]

Prime Minister, Australia’s lack of political leadership has gone on for far too long. Like the 82% of Australians who feel Israel’s actions are unjustified[6], I ask you to act now.

It’s Australia’s responsibility to do all it can to stop this senseless violence, and empty words do nothing to help the millions of people who are being starved by Israel.