Wong condemns escalating violence in Israel and urges parties to ‘restore calm’
Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong's comments come after rockets were fired into Israel, while a tourist and two sisters were killed in separate terror attacks.
Australia’s foreign minister Penny Wong has condemned the escalating violence and terror attacks in Israel and has called for calm from all parties.
Her comments come after an Italian tourist was killed in a car ramming terror attack in Tel Aviv, while two Israeli sisters were killed in a separate terrorist shooting in the West Bank.
The increase in violence has come as tensions have spiked in recent days following Israeli police incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound to quell rioting, while Hamas terrorists fired volleys of rockets at Israel from Gaza and Lebanon.
“Australia is deeply concerned by the escalating violence in Israel, the Palestinian Territories and Lebanon,” Wong said in a statement.
“During this time of Ramadan, Pesach and Easter, we call on all parties to immediately work to halt the violence, exercise restraint and restore calm.
“Australia condemns unreservedly the indiscriminate rocket attacks from southern Lebanon and Gaza and recognises Israel’s right to defend itself.
“We are shocked by the horrifying news of deadly terror attacks in the West Bank and Tel Aviv and our thoughts go to the victims’ families and the injured. Terrorism and violence against civilians can never be justified.
“Australia calls on all parties to respect and protect the sanctity and status of Jerusalem’s holy sites. Violence at Al Aqsa, including against worshippers, is reprehensible. Security operations must be proportionate and in accordance with international law.
“Events in recent days are urgent reminders of the need for leaders to work together to foster the conditions necessary for tolerance and peace.”
Meanwhile, Australia’s ambassador to Israel Ralph King tweeted: “We condemn the rocket attacks into northern and southern Israel, intended to terrorise civilians. Israel has the right to defend its borders and citizens. We urge maximum restraint at this delicate time.”
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