2026-05-19
Eleven Australians have been kidnapped in international waters by Israel while trying to deliver desperately needed humanitarian aid to people in Gaza. The whereabouts and wellbeing of these individuals is currently unknown.
Over the last two and a half years, Israel has systematically murdered, starved, and tortured Palestinians in Gaza, while also blocking or severely restricting the entry of fuel, food, water, and medical supplies. This follows decades of oppression, apartheid, occupation, and violence by Israel against Palestinians.
In the face of governments’ inaction and complicity, brave humanitarians from across the globe have attempted to break Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza to deliver food and medical supplies.
Lines attributable to Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Greens Deputy Leader and spokesperson for International Aid and Global Justice:
“Israel is able to commit acts of piracy and kidnapping in international waters with complete impunity because countries like Australia refuse to stand up for their citizens. Israel attacked the humanitarian flotilla last month and predictably they have just done it again. It is frightening how little the Australian Government cares.
“Just a few months ago, the PM and Foreign Minister were wining and dining the President of the genocidal Israeli regime. They should have already picked up the phone to demand the release and safe passage of all Australians aboard the Flotilla, and they should leave no stone unturned. Instead, we have silence.
“It is beyond comprehension that this Labor government still calls Israel a friend after two years of genocide, and even the capture of Australian citizens is apparently not a red line for them. It is appalling.
“We know that there are no limits to Israel’s cruelty, no limits to the laws they will break, and our hearts and prayers are with the brave Australians and their comrades aboard this flotilla.
“In the face of our government's inaction and our government's complicity, these courageous humanitarians have stood up and said enough is enough. We cannot forget them, and we must make our voices as loud as possible.”