Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued one of his strongest rebukes yet of "Israel’s" actions in Gaza, calling reports of Palestinians being killed while queuing for food and water “completely indefensible.”

In an interview for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), cited by Anadolu Agency, Albanese said he has raised these concerns directly with Israeli officials, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

“Israel is losing support by its own actions, and some of its actions are completely indefensible,” Albanese said, emphasizing that Australia's position has been conveyed both privately and publicly. “We say this as a friend: sometimes you gotta be straight and upfront.”

Firm support for 'two-state solution'

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Albanese reiterated Australia’s long-standing support for a "two-state solution" as the only viable path to ending the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian struggle. “Two states were envisaged,” he noted, “and certainly my government has continued to support two states in the Middle East."

While affirming Australia's historical support for "Israel", Albanese made it clear that continued backing depends on adherence to international norms. His comments reflect growing global discontent over the high civilian death toll in Gaza and the humanitarian catastrophe resulting from "Israel’s" ongoing siege.

Call for international responsibility

The prime minister also underscored the need for collective international action to revive prospects for peace. “The globe has to play a role in it,” he said, “and obviously, the role of the United States will be central to that.”

Albanese’s remarks come amid mounting global pressure on "Israel" over its ongoing genocide in Gaza, which has left tens of thousands dead and injured, including a disproportionate number of women and children. International agencies have warned of looming famine and widespread disease as "Israel" continues to restrict humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave.

Albanese also touched on broader geopolitical issues, referencing his recent visit to China and reaffirming Canberra’s position on the war in Ukraine. He said Australia's views were made “very clear” to Chinese officials, reinforcing the government's commitment to a rules-based international order.

His criticism of "Israel’s" conduct, delivered with diplomatic firmness, signals a notable shift in tone from a Western ally historically aligned with Tel Aviv. As public opinion in Australia and globally becomes increasingly critical of "Israel’s" war in Gaza, Albanese’s statements may reflect both a moral stance and a political calculation.

Read more: Killed for water: Siblings in Gaza torn apart by Israeli strike