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Key Points
- Germany is halting all military exports that could potentially be used in Gaza.
- Australia’s Defense Minister notes their involvement in the Lockheed Martin supply chain is distinct from direct military aid.
- Richard Marles contends that Australia’s export activities are much smaller compared to Germany’s, and minimally impactful.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who ran on a pro-Israel platform, announced last week a halt on military exports with potential use in Gaza “indefinitely”.
When pressed further on the issue of components, he said that Australia was part of the F-35 supply chain and had been for decades.
Marles said components were “a separate issue, and this is about having an impact on Israel”.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the military is preparing to take over Gaza City, following Israel’s outlined principles for “ending the conflict”. Source: Getty / Amir Levy
“There is no step that we can take here which has any impact in relation to the activities of Israel. And it is a very different question to what is being talked about in relation to Germany which obviously has a significant supply in to Israel,” he said.
After the US, Germany is the next biggest supplier of arms to Israel.
Source: SBS News
The Greens and pro-Palestinian groups have been pressuring the government over its military trade arrangements with Israel in recent months.
“Australia plays an integral role in the F35 fighter jet program. It is unique in manufacturing parts like bomb bay doors and serving as a regional distribution center.”
Anthony Albanese responds to calls for sanctions on Israel
“We independently decide our actions and often don’t preview them. It’s sometimes just rhetoric. For instance, at a press conference, when sanctions are mentioned, I ask which ones,” he replied.
Despite Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to New Zealand, international issues remain pressing, with inquiries about Australia’s stance towards Israel directed at him. Source: AAP / Peter Meecham
“People aren’t clear. What we need to do here is to have very clear statements and actions by the Australian government that make a difference, rather than respond to a slogan on a protest.
Albanese reiterated his government’s urging for Israel to abandon its recently approved plan to take control over Gaza City.
“We have a humanitarian catastrophe unfolding there. And the idea that it can just be continued is completely unacceptable.”
Concerns around Palestinian state recognition under Hamas
– with additional reporting by AAP
