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The Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the peak national representative body of the Australian Jewish community is pleased that the Labor Party National Conference has concluded its debate on Middle East policy with no change to the Government’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and without further hostile policy pronouncements. This is the first National Conference since 2015, where there has not been a further move towards unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state.
We warmly welcome the excellent speech delivered by Michael Easson, a highly principled and deeply informed Labor activist. As Mr Easson observed, “there can be no justice without truth.” The truth that this government must accept is that recognition of a state that does not exist is not the expression of solidarity or of a desire for peace. It is a dangerous falsehood which rewards the Palestinians for their refusal to negotiate an end to the conflict, recognise a Jewish state or renounce violence and terrorism. Recognition of a Palestinian state can only occur when it actually exists and that will only happen through direct negotiations between the parties.
We also wish to thank those delegates, members of parliament and senators who have maintained their steadfast support for truth, the Israel-Australia alliance and democratic values in the face of considerable pressure from anti-Israel activists to bow to their demands.
We maintain our opposition to recent Government announcements on the conflict, particularly the reversal of Australia’s recognition of west Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and the adoption of incorrect language regarding the designation of the West Bank, Gaza and Jerusalem.
We will never waver in our advocacy for the inalienable rights of the Jewish people and in standing up to those who wish to do the State of Israel harm.
At ALP National Conference no further change in ALP policy concerning Israel and excellent speech from Michael Easson.
Contact
Peter Wertheim AM | Co-CEO
ph: 02 8353 8505 | m: 0408 160 904 | fax: 02 9361 5888
e: pwertheim@ecaj.org.au | www.ecaj.org.au
