Penny Wong Urges Global Unity Against Escalating Conflicts at UNGA, Warns "Lebanon Cannot Become the Next Gaza"

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong is in New York to address the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where she will call upon the international community to unite in the face of escalating global conflicts. In her address, Wong will emphasize that the world is witnessing more conflict now than at any point since World War II, underscoring the urgent need for collective action. This marks the third consecutive year Wong will speak at the UNGA, but this time her tone reflects a deep concern for the global situation, declaring that "so much of the human family [is] enshrouded in darkness." Her remarks are set against a backdrop of ongoing turmoil in various regions, highlighting the imperative for unity to avert further descent into chaos.

During her speech, Wong is expected to reference several critical conflicts, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the crises in Sudan and Myanmar, and the escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon. She will articulate how these brutal and degrading conflicts are fostering deep-seated hatred and division, effectively pushing the prospect of peace further out of reach. Wong's address aims to remind member states of the foundational principles of the United Nations, which was established to uphold international standards and protect the rights and sovereignty of all nations. By emphasizing the importance of adhering to established rules, she seeks to guide the global community out of the current darkness and back toward a more hopeful future.

'Lebanon Cannot Become the Next Gaza'

In light of the recent hostilities, Wong will assert that "Lebanon cannot become the next Gaza." She acknowledges that while Australia is not a central player in the Middle Eastern conflicts, it strives to serve as a constructive voice for peace and adherence to international law, particularly in terms of civilian protection. Her remarks come as Israeli airstrikes have intensified, resulting in significant casualties and displacements within Lebanon, with over 550 lives lost amid escalating tensions. This situation has left tens of thousands fleeing their homes, further complicating the humanitarian landscape. The dire circumstances have led to Australian citizens being stranded in Lebanon as hostilities increase, with limited options for safe evacuation. Wong's call for peace is thus framed within the urgent context of protecting civilians and maintaining stability in the region.

War has Rules: Accountability is Crucial

In her address, Wong will pay tribute to the 1,200 individuals who lost their lives during the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel last October, describing it as the most significant loss of Jewish life in a single day since the Holocaust. She will emphasize that such acts of violence cannot and should not be justified, and Australia has responded by imposing sanctions on Hamas and its leadership. However, she will also stress the need for accountability, stating that "Palestinian civilians cannot be made to pay the price of defeating Hamas." The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 40,000 fatalities in Gaza, according to local health authorities. Wong will argue that adherence to the rules of war is essential, asserting that every nation, including Israel, must comply with international mandates, such as the orders from the International Court of Justice regarding the provision of humanitarian assistance.

Earlier this year, Australia joined 143 other nations at the UNGA in voting to recognize Palestine as a full member of the organization. Wong will clarify that Australia views this recognition not as an endpoint but as a necessary step toward achieving lasting peace. She envisions new pathways to build momentum for the two-state solution, including the role of the UN Security Council in establishing a clear timeline for the international declaration of Palestinian statehood. This vision seeks to address the complex realities of the region while advocating for a balanced approach to peace.

Gaza is the Most Dangerous Place on Earth for Aid Workers

Furthermore, Wong will highlight the critical issue of protecting aid workers in conflict zones, specifically referencing the tragic killing of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom in Gaza earlier this year. Frankcom was working with the World Central Kitchen charity to provide essential supplies when her convoy was mistakenly struck by an Israeli drone. Wong's speech will underline that Gaza has become the most perilous location for aid workers, with over 300 fatalities among humanitarian personnel since the onset of the conflict. This stark reality emphasizes the urgent need for improved protections and support for those striving to deliver assistance in challenging environments. While in New York for the UNGA, Wong has taken the opportunity to meet with her international counterparts and humanitarian organizations to advocate for greater safety measures for aid workers and to ensure that their vital work can continue without undue risk.