The government has pledged an initial $10 million in humanitarian aid to Gaza amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
Of the money, $3 million will go toward the Red Cross for essential services and medical support and $7 million to the United Nations to provide things like emergency water and food.
Israel cut off supplies to Gaza a week ago, after Hamas militants attacked Israel.
Foreign affairs minister Penny Wong said the Australian government joined US president Joe Biden in calling on Israel to operate within the “rules of war”.
“We call for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to civilians affected by the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” Wong said.
“We call for the establishment of a corridor to enable humanitarian needs to be met. And we support the work of the United States, Egypt and others towards this goal.
“Adherence to international humanitarian law must be prioritised — including the protection of civilians, wherever they live.”
Similar calls for both sides to act under the law of armed conflict — particularly not targeting civilians — were made by UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths last week.
Wong added Hamas did not represent the Palestinian people, saying the group “undermines Palestinian needs and aspirations”.
International development minister Pat Conroy said the assistance was prioritised for civilian needs.
“We call for the protection of, and unimpeded access for, humanitarian workers who are delivering lifesaving support,” Conroy said.
Smarttraveller has updated its travel advice for Lebanon, cautioning against travelling to the south of the country.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade-run service also advised to reconsider the need to be in the country at all.
“I am now saying to Australians, if you are in Lebanon, you should consider whether your need to remain there is essential,” Wong said.
The advice comes as Israeli forces have clashed with Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group and Hamas ally.
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