Oxfam Australia welcomes the Australian Government's vote today in support of a United Nations resolution for an "immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza.
Oxfam also welcomes Australia's vote for a resolution defending the work of UNRWA, the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees, which is the largest and most well-established agency that has been delivering aid to the people of Gaza for decades.
Chrisanta Muli, Oxfam Australia's Director of Programs and Transformation, praised Australia's vote.
"We commend the Australian Government for today supporting the UN resolution backing an 'immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire' in Gaza.
"We note that this shift comes at a critical time when we remain deeply concerned about the escalating humanitarian emergency and deteriorating environment in Gaza and the West Bank.
"Millions of Palestinians in Gaza are enduring unfathomable conditions, including ongoing bombardment, displacement, starvation, and destruction of infrastructure.
"Access to aid must be scaled up across all of Gaza, and Palestinians must be given the freedom to return home, rebuild, and live in peace, free of occupation and blockade.
"We ask that the Australian Government offers increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We welcome the funds already pledged and call for an immediate increase."
