Australia Rejects Forced Displacement of Palestinians Under Trump's Plan
Labor frontbencher Katy Gallagher has stated that Australia will not support the "forced displacement" of Palestinians in Gaza as part of Donald Trump's plan to take "ownership" of the Palestinian territory, indicating that it may violate international law.
The US President's proposal, which aims to transform Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East," has overturned decades of foreign policy, leading to global backlash and uncertainty among Washington's allies.
Under this plan, the 2.1 million Palestinians residing in Gaza would be resettled, yet the specifics of where and how this would occur remain unclear.
Numerous Middle Eastern governments have condemned the policy shift, cautioning that an influx of Palestinians into neighbouring countries would destabilise the region.
Palestinian officials have also rejected the notion that Gazans would voluntarily leave their war-torn home, as suggested by Mr Trump.
The Albanese government has faced inquiries regarding its backing of Mr Trump's plan, maintaining Australia's bipartisan stance for a two-state solution.
Senator Gallagher reaffirmed Labor's position for "a two-state solution that supports the rights of the Palestinian people, the state of Palestine, and the state of Israel to coexist peacefully."
However, the Finance Minister emphasised the necessity of abiding by international law, suggesting that certain aspects of the proposed plan could be contrary to it.
"We have made clear what our position is ... and that the conflict in the Middle East is resolved as soon as possible and peacefully, and in accordance with international law," she stated.
When pressed, she affirmed that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has "been clear" that "all matters are dealt with in accordance with international law."
On the question of whether a country taking control of Gaza aligns with international law, Senator Gallagher remarked: "If you're talking forced displacement ... that is not consistent with international law."
She reiterated that the Albanese government has been "very clear and consistent" in its stance.
She noted that Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also confirmed his commitment to a two-state solution.
Dutton praised Mr Trump as a "big thinker and a deal maker" while reaffirming his support for a two-state solution.
Reporters and policy analysts are working to understand what a US takeover of Gaza would entail, as details have shifted since Mr Trump's initial announcement.
Initially, he did not rule out deploying US troops, but later retracted this after significant criticism from his American base.
Additionally, his White House press secretary announced that Mr Trump does not plan to use US taxpayer dollars for Gaza's reconstruction, raising further questions about funding sources.
