Australian Minister Says Forcible Displacement of Gazans against Int’l Law
Finance Minister Katy Gallagher made the remarks on Sunday while responding to questions about Donald Trump’s plan for the US to "take over" Gaza, local broadcaster SBS News reported..
Her remarks came days after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese refused to condemn Trump's plan, but said Australia's position of supporting for a two-state solution remained unchanged.
Gallagher, who was pressed on the government's position on Trump’s comments, reiterated Australia’s commitment to the two-state solution.
Asked whether the policy would be aligned with international law, Gallagher said: "If you're talking forced displacement ... that is not consistent with international law."
"We'll always make our decisions based on Australia's national interest. Obviously, it's an important strategic -- America is an important strategic partner and our closest ally," she said.
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If Trump follows through with his plans, it could be considered a war crime and a crime against humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to the broadcaster.
The US does not recognize the ICC, but the court has jurisdiction over actions in Gaza.
Source: Anadolu Agency
