Jewish groups call for Australian sanctions against Israel

Jewish groups concerned about the resumption of hostilities in Gaza have called for the Australian government to impose sanctions on the state of Israel. 

Seven groups released a statement condemning “the Israeli government’s decision to break the hostage and ceasefire agreement negotiated in January 2025 and resume the horrific bombardment of Palestinians in Gaza”. 

Signatories to the statement are Jewish Women 4 Peace Action Ready Group, Australian Jewish Democratic Society, Australian Jewish members of the leadership team of Sydney Friends of Standing Together, Jews for Palestine WA, Jews against the Occupation '48, Jewish Council of Australia, and Emet. 

Using the hashtag #notinourname, the groups want to send the message that not all Jews support Israel’s actions.

The full statement reads:

“We, Jewish Australians, oppose the Israeli government’s decision to break the hostage and ceasefire agreement negotiated in January 2025 and resume the horrific bombardment of Palestinians in Gaza.  

“On 2 March, when the second phase of the ceasefire should have started, the Israeli government prohibited all humanitarian aid from entering Gaza.  

“On 11 March Israel cut off Gaza’s electricity supply, preventing the only water desalination plant there from functioning. 

“On 18 March, the Israeli military launched a wave of airstrikes in Gaza, massacring over 750 (and rising) Palestinians, including countless children. Survivors of Israel’s assault face excruciating conditions, including having to endure amputations without anaesthesia. Palestinians in Gaza are suffering from famine, the destruction of healthcare systems, relentless aerial attacks, and are now being subjected to a new wave of violence.