Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong says the government is "outraged" by the Israel Defense Forces' decision not to pursue a criminal investigation into the strike on an aid convoy in 2024 that killed seven people, including Australian Zomi Frankcom. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
In a statement issued this morning, Wong says it falls "far short of the accountability we expect" and she will call in Israel's ambassador to Australia, Hillel Newman, and has "directed Australia's ambassador to Israel [Neil Hawkins] to convey our views directly to Israel as the Australian government considers next steps".
The Australian government learned of Israel's decision late last night, moments before it was announced, on World Humanitarian Day – which is especially insulting to Zomi's loved ones, humanitarians and all Australians.
"Zomi represented the best of Australia. Her courage deserves to be celebrated. Her family deserves justice," Wong said.
The decision not to investigate further came despite the IDF's admissions that the strikes on Zomi and her colleagues' vehicles were the result of serious failures to follow procedures, mistaken identification and errors in decision-making, Wong said. This was confirmed by Special Adviser Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin's report.
"Democracies seek and accept higher standards. The Australian government will not stop pressing Israel for justice for Zomi and her colleagues," Wong concluded.
Israel's decision has drawn widespread criticism from the international community. The Australian government will continue to raise the issue at the international level and demand accountability from Israel.
Zomi Frankcom's family and loved ones continue to seek justice. The Australian government has expressed its support and said it will not rest until the matter is resolved.
The incident could affect diplomatic relations between Australia and Israel. The Australian government is considering reviewing its relationship with Israel.
Experts say Israel's decision contradicts humanitarian and international law. The Australian government plans to raise the issue in international organizations such as the UN.
The death of Zomi Frankcom has caused a major uproar in Australia. Her name has become a symbol of the fight to protect humanitarian workers.
The Australian government has expressed its protest against Israel's decision and called on the international community to pay attention to the issue.
This event is a significant moment in Australia's foreign policy. It demonstrates the country's commitment to international law and human rights.
The Australian government has stated it will use all diplomatic channels to resolve the issue.
Zomi Frankcom's family and loved ones continue to seek justice. The Australian government has expressed its support and said it will not rest until the matter is resolved.