I have had discussions with many people from across our community who are understandably distressed about the conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

In the most recent parliamentary sittings I met with Aftab Malik, Special Envoy to Combat Islamaphobia in Australia, and Australians for Humanity.

As the Prime Minister has said, the situation in Gaza has gone beyond the world’s worst fears. The position of the Australian Government is clear: every innocent life matters.

We reiterate our call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages. We remain unequivocal in our condemnation of Hamas and its ongoing acts of terror.

Gaza is in the grip of a humanitarian catastrophe. Israel’s denial of aid and the killing of civilians, including children, seeking access to water and food is indefensible.

We call on Israel to comply immediately with its obligations under international law.

This includes allowing the United Nations and NGOs to carry out their lifesaving work safely and without hindrance.

The Albanese Labor Government will continue working with the international community towards a two-state solution – a Palestinian state and the State of Israel, living side by side in peace and security within internationally recognised borders.