By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Australia is increasingly concerned about Israel’s actions and has not ruled out imposing sanctions on settlers. This follows a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) stating that Israel's occupation of territories seized in 1967 is illegal. A senior Australian government source emphasized the ruling's significance under international law, despite Israel's dismissal of it as non binding and biased.
The Australian government has noted Israel's ongoing settlement expansions, violence by extremist settlers, and rejection of a two state solution as troubling patterns. While specific actions under consideration were not disclosed, sanctions against settlers and increased public criticism of Israeli policies are possibilities. Australia already restricts visas for identified extremist settlers.
Australia is also considering stronger diplomatic measures and collaborating with other nations to advance peace efforts. This aligns with European Union officials' views that a two state solution might need external imposition due to Israel's stance on security control.
Nasser Mashni, president of the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, urged the government to take decisive steps based on the ICJ ruling, including sanctions. The ICJ found Israel’s presence in occupied territories unlawful and described its laws as perpetuating racial segregation and apartheid, allegations Israel denies.
Australia is carefully reviewing the ICJ's opinion. Meanwhile, the Israeli parliament recently opposed a Palestinian state, citing security concerns. Israel's finance minister has expressed intentions to integrate the West Bank into Israel, further complicating peace prospects.
Australian officials continue to advocate for a two state solution and immediate measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. The government's stance has faced domestic political pressure, with calls for recognition of Palestine and increased engagement with the Muslim community ahead of federal elections.
The Israeli government, via its ambassador to Australia, has dismissed the ICJ's opinion as politically biased and accused it of ignoring recent attacks against Israel and its security needs. The Coalition’s foreign affairs spokesperson, Simon Birmingham, did not comment on the ICJ ruling.
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