Wong’s message to Israeli families

Penny Wong has used an emotional meeting with family members of people taken hostage by Hamas to express solidarity with victims and to affirm Australia’s support for the release of all remaining captives in Gaza.

The foreign minister arrived in Jerusalem on Tuesday, where she held talks with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Foreign Minister Israel Katz.

Senator Wong held an hourlong discussion with survivors of the attacks by Hamas on October 7 and people who had family members kidnapped.

The federal government announced $21.5m in aid to assist with the humanitarian crisis unfolding across the region.

About 1200 Israelis were killed and 240 people were taken hostage by Hamas militants during a surprise crossborder massacre in October.

Palestinian authorities estimate the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 24,000 since the Israel-Hamas war broke out, with those killed mostly women and children.

During talks with Israeli officials on Tuesday, Senator Wong emphasised that Australia wanted to see a pathway out of the ongoing conflict.

Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic said the funds were “absolutely crucial”.

“We’ve got so many people in desperate need in Gaza that we do need to provide that type of assistance and emphasis on the commitment to international humanitarian law. Specifically the protection of innocent lives,” he said.

Senator Wong was expected to travel to the West Bank on Thursday to meet Palestinian officials and victims of Israeli settler violence.

She received backlash from Jewish leaders and the Coalition over a decision to not visit a kibbutz attacked by Hamas on October 7.

On Wednesday, deputy leader Sussan Ley said it was “unforgivable”. “Of course, we support more humanitarian aid … the incredibly sad stories that we’re all hearing make us worry about the situation in Gaza and in Israel more broadly,” she said. “But I think it’s unforgivable that Penny Wong has not visited the massacre sites.”