Greens leader Adam Bandt has reaffirmed his party's position on the Gaza conflict despite criticism that the issue was notably absent from his major policy address at the National Press Club today.
When questioned about the omission of Gaza from his speech, Bandt rejected suggestions that the Greens might be softening their stance on the issue ahead of the election, instead emphasizing the party's consistent position since October 2023.
"Amnesty International says there's a genocide occurring. We've said that, but if you don't necessarily believe us, listen to Amnesty International," Bandt stated, referring to international assessments of the situation.
The Greens leader defended his party's record of opposing the military action in Gaza from its earliest stages, noting they had warned about potential humanitarian consequences that he believes have since materialized.
Key Details:
Bandt maintained the Greens' position calling for recognition of Palestinian self-determination
He referenced international court action against Israeli leadership, including arrest warrants
The Greens leader suggested many voters will base their election decisions on the Australian government's response to Gaza
Commission Insights:
Bandt criticized the Australian government for continuing military trade with Israel
He contrasted Australia's response to Gaza with its stronger actions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine
The Greens position continues to call for both Israelis and Palestinians to "live in a just and lasting peace"
Bandt predicted the issue would be significant in the upcoming election, stating: "There will be many people who are going to change their vote on that because there are things that the Australian government could do that would actually make a difference."
The comments came in response to questioning from Bloomberg journalist Ben Westcott about the issue's absence from Bandt's prepared remarks, which primarily focused on housing policy, taxation of billionaires, and climate action.
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