Penny Wong calls for 'humanitarian pause' on hostilities in Gaza

Foreign Minister Penny Wong says the humanitarian situation in Gaza is “dire and human suffering is widespread”.

“We call for humanitarian pauses on hostilities, so food, water, medicine and other essential assistance can reach people in desperate need, and so civilians can get to safety,” Senator Wong posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles said 79 Australians remain in Gaza and confirmed that two RAAF aircraft will be sent to the Middle East, along with Australian troops.

“The point of this is to support Australian populations that are in the Middle East,” Mr Marles told reporters earlier today.

“We don’t know exactly how this is going to play out in the Middle East … We very much hope it is contained to Gaza, but we are taking these steps now in the event that matters do get worse.”

Видео Penny Wong calls for 'humanitarian pause' on hostilities in Gaza канала Sky News Australia