Husic urges ‘concrete action’ on Israeli settlements in West Bank after Australia declines to join trade ban
News Source
•Thu, 10 Sep 2026 06:14:55 GMT
📰 What Happened
Labor MP Ed Husic has urged the government to take real action against illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. He says another statement is not enough.
This came after Australia refused to join Britain, Canada and France in banning trade with West Bank settlements. Australia has already recognised the state of Palestine.
Foreign minister Penny Wong said a blanket ban could have unintended effects on Australian businesses and on both Palestinians and Israelis.
🔍 The Backstory
The West Bank is land that Palestinians want for a future state. Israel has built settlements there that most countries, including Australia, say are illegal.
Violence by settlers against Palestinians has risen. Britain's foreign secretary described it as 'ethnic cleansing' in parts of the West Bank.
Labor's national platform changed in July to support a joint approach. A party group called Labor Friends of Palestine wrote to Wong asking Australia to join its allies.
🎯 Why It Matters
Australia's choice affects its reputation and its trade. It matters to Australians who follow the conflict and want their country to stand by its stated values.
Labor MP Ed Husic has urged the government to take real action against illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. He says another statement is not enough.
This came after Australia refused to join Britain, Canada and France in banning trade with West Bank settlements. Australia has already recognised the state of Palestine.
Foreign minister Penny Wong said a blanket ban could have unintended effects on Australian businesses and on both Palestinians and Israelis.
The West Bank is land that Palestinians want for a future state. Israel has built settlements there that most countries, including Australia, say are illegal.
Violence by settlers against Palestinians has risen. Britain's foreign secretary described it as 'ethnic cleansing' in parts of the West Bank.
Labor's national platform changed in July to support a joint approach. A party group called Labor Friends of Palestine wrote to Wong asking Australia to join its allies.
Australia's choice affects its reputation and its trade. It matters to Australians who follow the conflict and want their country to stand by its stated values.