Opposition leader claims the government sold out the Jewish community by supporting a UN resolution demanding Israel withdraw from Gaza

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has accused the federal government of “selling out” Israel in order to win votes from the Greens. Australia’s shift in policy came after it voted in favour of a United Nations resolution calling for Israel to end its “unlawful presence” in Gaza and the broader Occupied Palestinian Territories, including the West Bank. This shift, which aligns Australia with 156 other nations, marks a significant departure from the country’s previous position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Dutton argued that the government’s decision was politically motivated, aimed at winning votes in Labor-held seats with large Muslim populations. He accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of compromising Australia’s support for Israel to shore up support from Green voters, suggesting the Jewish community had been “sacrificed” in the process.

The Greens have long advocated for sanctions on Israel and an end to its occupation of Palestinian territories, exerting political pressure on the government. In contrast, Treasurer Jim Chalmers defended the government’s stance, emphasizing Labour’s commitment to a two-state solution and peace efforts. Chalmers rejected Dutton’s accusations, calling the criticism divisive and out of step with Australia’s efforts toward long-term peace in the region.

The vote comes amid growing international debate over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, with the Australian government under scrutiny for its handling of the situation. However, despite the backlash, the government maintains that its position reflects a commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East.