True bonds that stand the test of time

At a time when many in our community are dissatisfied with our current government’s dealings with and support for Israel, it’s important to be reminded that the relationship between our countries runs much deeper than contemporary politics.

It is woven through more than a century of shared history.

This week, we report on the 108th anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Beersheba, where Indigenous advocate and former senator Nova Peris and Australian Colonel Michael Scott joined Israeli and Australian dignitaries to commemorate a victory by Australian Light Horsemen that proved pivotal in the events leading up to the Balfour Declaration and the resurrection of Jewish sovereignty in our ancient homeland.

Australia’s military connection to the land that would become Israel doesn’t end there, with the Zion Mule Corps having fought alongside Australian troops in other theatres during World War I. In 1947, Australian foreign minister Doc Evatt played a crucial role in UN Resolution 181, which preceded the creation of the modern State of Israel.

Meanwhile, the Australian Jewish community’s connection to Israel has only strengthened since October 7, 2023.