CANBERRA, Australia: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the opposition’s refusal to support growing international calls for a cease-fire in the Gaza and Lebanon conflicts.
Wong specifically criticized opposition leader Peter Dutton for failing to align with global cease-fire efforts, labeling his position as “extreme.” She noted that Dutton’s stance is increasingly at odds with international sentiment, including that of the United States.
Liberal Senator James Paterson expressed the opposition’s desire for an end to the Middle East conflict but declined to endorse a formal cease-fire. Wong argued that Dutton’s negative stance is particularly damaging, given the importance of saving civilian lives and preventing further escalation.
The development comes amid Israel’s continued airstrikes across Lebanon, primarily targeting Hezbollah positions. Since September 23, these strikes have killed more than 1,400 people, injured more than 4,000, and displaced 1.34 million individuals. The conflict follows ongoing tensions in Gaza, where over 42,000, mostly civilians, have died since October 7.
Wong’s comments underline the growing pressure for peace, contrasting sharply with the opposition’s reluctance to support an official cease-fire.
