Chris Bowen was also asked about the Australian government response to Israel’s non-stop killing of Palestinians in Gaza. (Again, much more passive language was used).

This morning, we have reached the insane place of where the UK is ‘threatening’ to follow France and recognise Palestine as a state, IF Israel doesn’t commit to a peace process.

I mean does anyone understand just how crazy that is? A colonial power, responsible for creating the situation Palestinians are living in today, is now threatening an ‘ally’ with recognition of a state (that has always existed) if that ‘ally’ doesn’t ‘commit to peace’. The same country that just prescribed Palestine Action – a group dedicated to elevating Palestinians – as a terrorist group. This is where the world is today.

Anyway, here is what Chris Bowen was asked:

Chris Bowen. There are reports this evening that the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has convened an emergency cabinet to discuss his plan for peace in Gaza, but also for aid, further aid to get to Gaza. Would Australia as a middle power join a joint effort to ensure more aid gets into to Gaza, also ensuring that the Israelis are forced to open ports and borders to make that happen?

Bowen:

Well, I think the best thing I can do, is very warmly and strongly and positively point you to the Prime Minister’s comments.

One, his abhorrence at what has been happening in Gaza in recent times, his condemnation of that action and his statements about Australia’s role in a pathway going forward, a sensible pathway for Australia to work towards the recognition of Palestine at the right time. But also his abhorrence at the breaches of international law.

That’s a very strong statement. And to your question directly, he has made clear he has been in contact with his counterparts as the Foreign Minister has been in contact with hers.

And there is a high degree of coordination between Australia and like minded countries or middle powers, as you correctly put it. There is a very high degree of coordination there and you should expect that to continue.

Now I’m not going to comment on the details what Keir Starmer may or may not be doing because that’s a matter for the United Kingdom.

Obviously we would respond in due course. But I will point to the Prime Minister’s very, very strong comments which I wholeheartedly endorse obviously and his statements about the pathway going forward.