Labor MP Ed Husic has written a strongly worded opinion piece criticising the federal government’s response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, arguing Australia should take a firmer stand against Israel for restricting aid access.
Writing for The Guardian, Husic said Australia “can and should be doing more” to pressure Israel, which has come under international scrutiny for allowing only limited humanitarian aid into Gaza. His comments come as the United Nations and several allies call for increased assistance to the conflict-ravaged region.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong recently joined counterparts from 23 countries in demanding “a full and immediate resumption of aid” and described reports that 14,000 infants are at risk of death as “horrifying.” However, unlike the UK, France, and Canada, Australia has stopped short of threatening sanctions against Israel.
Husic, who claims his outspoken views on Gaza contributed to his removal from cabinet, said Australia missed an opportunity to join key allies in taking a stronger stance.
“It was an important stand by [those countries],” he wrote. “Australia could have proudly joined them. We didn’t.”
A Call for Bolder Action
The federal government has reiterated its disapproval of Israel’s military escalation in Gaza and its opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians, which it says would breach international law. A spokesperson noted that both Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have raised concerns directly with Israeli leaders in recent talks.
Despite acknowledging Australia’s existing aid efforts, Husic said more must be done.
“We should be calling in the Israeli ambassador to express our clear demand that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow freely and rapidly — not the trickle currently permitted,” he wrote.
He argued that Australia’s contribution to Gaza aid should be boosted, comparing it to the $1 billion in support for Ukraine, noting only $100 million has been committed to Gaza so far.
Husic also cited Labor icons like former Prime Minister Bob Hawke as examples of leaders who acted decisively during global human rights crises.
“Today’s challenges require conviction, not hesitation,” he said.
Political Fallout
Husic, the first Muslim elected to federal parliament, served as Minister for Industry and Science during the Albanese government’s first term. He was removed from the frontbench after the election due to factional balancing within Labor’s NSW Right group.
His removal, along with that of former Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, drew criticism and sparked internal debate. Husic later accused Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles of being a “factional assassin,” and said he was punished for voicing concern over Gaza during internal party discussions.
“You can’t promote diversity and then expect silence,” Husic said during an appearance on ABC’s Q+A. “I couldn’t just sit there and say nothing.”
Treasurer Jim Chalmers later said he understood Husic’s frustration, acknowledging that he would feel similarly if in Husic’s position.
