A worrying new development in the long-running conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas is prompting updated travel warnings for Australian tourists.

Hamas—which has struggled to govern Gaza and remains committed to resisting Israel—has recently launched hundreds of rockets into Israel.

Israel has responded with airstrikes on Gaza, which has prompted Hamas to threaten to kill hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they were 'at war', vowing that Hamas will 'pay an unprecedented price' for their latest offensive.

This eruption of violence has left hundreds dead so far.

For Aussies planning to travel to Israel, the smart move is to avoid going near conflict zones altogether. Smartraveller.gov.au, the government's travel advisory site, warns against visiting Gaza or areas near the Gaza border.

Intensifying conflict in the Middle East has prompted Australia to scale up its travel advice. Credit: CNN.

'There's ongoing armed conflict in Southern Israel and Gaza,' the warning reads.

'Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza. There have been separate terror attacks on civilians. Do not travel to Gaza or areas near the border with Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict. The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.'

'Authorities are also monitoring security on Israel's northern border and have asked residents of some towns to evacuate, including in Rosh Hanikra, Adamit, Bezet and Hanita.'

Stay informed through the National Emergency Portal is important if you're currently in Israel. For those in Gaza, it's advised to be vigilant about your surroundings and review your personal security plans.

In case of an emergency where you require consular assistance, you can reach out to +61 2 6261 3305.

However, it's important to note that the government may have limited capacity to assist in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided an update regarding the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip. He mentioned that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials have been working around the clock with Israeli counterparts to address the matter.

'We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,' he said.

'We don't have any further information to announce at this point in time. But obviously, we are concerned, as is the whole world.'

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising that both sides must prioritise the safety of civilians.

'We've said Israel has a right to defend itself (and) we call for all hostages to be released,' she said.

'But we also have a principle position which we would advocate to all nations and all groups and all situations, which is we would urge for the protection of civilian lives and restraint.'

She continued: 'I think Australia should always, in any conflict, be saying we want civilian lives to (be) protected, and that is what I have advocated.'

Despite facing criticism, including from the opposition, for her call for 'restraint,' Senator Wong maintained her position, questioning, 'What's the alternative to Australia urging restraint and the protection of civilian lives?'

She acknowledged that the recent events are an escalation of a long-standing dispute but firmly asserted that nothing justifies the violence, hostage-taking, killing of civilians, and other distressing incidents witnessed during the conflict.

The official also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of Australians in Israel. As of now, there are no reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

Nevertheless, she strongly encourages Australians still in Israel to contact their families if they haven't already done so. Officials are actively working to confirm the status of Australians in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are warned to avoid travelling to Gaza due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
• The government's Smart Traveller website has updated its advice, urging citizens against visiting areas near the Gaza border.
• Those in Gaza or Israel are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and review their security plans.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong asserts that officials are working to ascertain the welfare and safety of Australians in Israel, though there have been no current reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

While the situation remains unstable, Australian authorities are watching things closely. Stay tuned to official government travel advisories for updates.

What are your thoughts on this news, members? Let us know in the comments below.

 

[Glo72]

It is heartbreaking watching the news and seeing what happened in Israel. I hope they can rescue those people taken hostage but Hamas are terrorists and their track record for murder is well known. My heart goes out to innocent people on both sides of this conflict.

 

[Suzanne rose]

It's devastating what is happening in Israel. So many people killed including children and babies.
This has always been a problem between Israelis and the Palestinians although there has been peace for many years.

I hope the Jewish community has extra security because what happened with protest in my area the other night is anything to go by who knows what these crazy Palestinians will do.

After the attack on Israel on Sunday the Palestinians around Lakemba were celebrating and even letting of firecrackers to celebrate.

Anyone who has come into our country need to accept and respect our laws and if they are happy and celebrating with their motherland that has killed so many then maybe they need to go back to their country.

Australians do not celebrate such tragic loss of human life , we mourn with those who loss loved ones

The leader of the Hamas is a terrorist and is equal to Bin Laden .
Any supporters of him should not be in our country

 

[Jakepuss]

A worrying new development in the long-running conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas is prompting updated travel warnings for Australian tourists.

Hamas—which has struggled to govern Gaza and remains committed to resisting Israel—has recently launched hundreds of rockets into Israel.

Israel has responded with airstrikes on Gaza, which has prompted Hamas to threaten to kill hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they were 'at war', vowing that Hamas will 'pay an unprecedented price' for their latest offensive.

This eruption of violence has left hundreds dead so far.

For Aussies planning to travel to Israel, the smart move is to avoid going near conflict zones altogether. Smartraveller.gov.au, the government's travel advisory site, warns against visiting Gaza or areas near the Gaza border.

View attachment 31811

Intensifying conflict in the Middle East has prompted Australia to scale up its travel advice. Credit: CNN.

'There's ongoing armed conflict in Southern Israel and Gaza,' the warning reads.

'Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza. There have been separate terror attacks on civilians. Do not travel to Gaza or areas near the border with Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict. The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.'

'Authorities are also monitoring security on Israel's northern border and have asked residents of some towns to evacuate, including in Rosh Hanikra, Adamit, Bezet and Hanita.'

Stay informed through the National Emergency Portal is important if you're currently in Israel. For those in Gaza, it's advised to be vigilant about your surroundings and review your personal security plans.

In case of an emergency where you require consular assistance, you can reach out to +61 2 6261 3305.

However, it's important to note that the government may have limited capacity to assist in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided an update regarding the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip. He mentioned that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials have been working around the clock with Israeli counterparts to address the matter.

'We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,' he said.

'We don't have any further information to announce at this point in time. But obviously, we are concerned, as is the whole world.'

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising that both sides must prioritise the safety of civilians.

'We've said Israel has a right to defend itself (and) we call for all hostages to be released,' she said.

'But we also have a principle position which we would advocate to all nations and all groups and all situations, which is we would urge for the protection of civilian lives and restraint.'

She continued: 'I think Australia should always, in any conflict, be saying we want civilian lives to (be) protected, and that is what I have advocated.'

Despite facing criticism, including from the opposition, for her call for 'restraint,' Senator Wong maintained her position, questioning, 'What's the alternative to Australia urging restraint and the protection of civilian lives?'

She acknowledged that the recent events are an escalation of a long-standing dispute but firmly asserted that nothing justifies the violence, hostage-taking, killing of civilians, and other distressing incidents witnessed during the conflict.

The official also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of Australians in Israel. As of now, there are no reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

Nevertheless, she strongly encourages Australians still in Israel to contact their families if they haven't already done so. Officials are actively working to confirm the status of Australians in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are warned to avoid travelling to Gaza due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
• The government's Smart Traveller website has updated its advice, urging citizens against visiting areas near the Gaza border.
• Those in Gaza or Israel are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and review their security plans.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong asserts that officials are working to ascertain the welfare and safety of Australians in Israel, though there have been no current reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

While the situation remains unstable, Australian authorities are watching things closely. Stay tuned to official government travel advisories for updates.

What are your thoughts on this news, members? Let us know in the comments below.

The Rafah border area has always been "warm" regarding security. Dangerous lot there!

 

[Brody]

A worrying new development in the long-running conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas is prompting updated travel warnings for Australian tourists.

Hamas—which has struggled to govern Gaza and remains committed to resisting Israel—has recently launched hundreds of rockets into Israel.

Israel has responded with airstrikes on Gaza, which has prompted Hamas to threaten to kill hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they were 'at war', vowing that Hamas will 'pay an unprecedented price' for their latest offensive.

This eruption of violence has left hundreds dead so far.

For Aussies planning to travel to Israel, the smart move is to avoid going near conflict zones altogether. Smartraveller.gov.au, the government's travel advisory site, warns against visiting Gaza or areas near the Gaza border.

View attachment 31811

Intensifying conflict in the Middle East has prompted Australia to scale up its travel advice. Credit: CNN.

'There's ongoing armed conflict in Southern Israel and Gaza,' the warning reads.

'Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza. There have been separate terror attacks on civilians. Do not travel to Gaza or areas near the border with Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict. The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.'

'Authorities are also monitoring security on Israel's northern border and have asked residents of some towns to evacuate, including in Rosh Hanikra, Adamit, Bezet and Hanita.'

Stay informed through the National Emergency Portal is important if you're currently in Israel. For those in Gaza, it's advised to be vigilant about your surroundings and review your personal security plans.

In case of an emergency where you require consular assistance, you can reach out to +61 2 6261 3305.

However, it's important to note that the government may have limited capacity to assist in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided an update regarding the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip. He mentioned that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials have been working around the clock with Israeli counterparts to address the matter.

'We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,' he said.

'We don't have any further information to announce at this point in time. But obviously, we are concerned, as is the whole world.'

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising that both sides must prioritise the safety of civilians.

'We've said Israel has a right to defend itself (and) we call for all hostages to be released,' she said.

'But we also have a principle position which we would advocate to all nations and all groups and all situations, which is we would urge for the protection of civilian lives and restraint.'

She continued: 'I think Australia should always, in any conflict, be saying we want civilian lives to (be) protected, and that is what I have advocated.'

Despite facing criticism, including from the opposition, for her call for 'restraint,' Senator Wong maintained her position, questioning, 'What's the alternative to Australia urging restraint and the protection of civilian lives?'

She acknowledged that the recent events are an escalation of a long-standing dispute but firmly asserted that nothing justifies the violence, hostage-taking, killing of civilians, and other distressing incidents witnessed during the conflict.

The official also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of Australians in Israel. As of now, there are no reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

Nevertheless, she strongly encourages Australians still in Israel to contact their families if they haven't already done so. Officials are actively working to confirm the status of Australians in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are warned to avoid travelling to Gaza due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
• The government's Smart Traveller website has updated its advice, urging citizens against visiting areas near the Gaza border.
• Those in Gaza or Israel are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and review their security plans.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong asserts that officials are working to ascertain the welfare and safety of Australians in Israel, though there have been no current reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

While the situation remains unstable, Australian authorities are watching things closely. Stay tuned to official government travel advisories for updates.

What are your thoughts on this news, members? Let us know in the comments below.

This situation is beyond belief, the desperate situation that has continued
for so long. It is on our doorstep wether we realise it or not. Look at the rallies that have already given a clear indication
of the intent to bring this conflict to us in Australia.
For me personally I think we need to be very vigilant in our own backyard. There are people here, who have enjoyed the freedoms we have offered to them, without any strings attached.
Those same people who now want to express themselves by violence. We can put ourselves in our own country right behind the Eighth Ball if we put ourselves in harm's way.
Our position is very volatile to say the least.
Extreme caution on is necessary and accept the fact
that the whole world cannot put their
head in the sand where we are all possible victims to the madness that accompanies two races that both believe
that they are right.
I have my own opinion in this, but that is of no importance in the situation that is currently confronting the whole world.
This problem has the potential to create
a major upheaval that could cause major
catastrophic events everywhere.

I could be seen as being a warmonger
who is determined to upset the normal lives of people. I will take that, it is very
unsettling, when we are so far away.Or
so we think!!!!

 

[mOiOz]

It's devastating what is happening in Israel. So many people killed including children and babies.
This has always been a problem between Israelis and the Palestinians although there has been peace for many years.

I hope the Jewish community has extra security because what happened with protest in my area the other night is anything to go by who knows what these crazy Palestinians will do.

After the attack on Israel on Sunday the Palestinians around Lakemba were celebrating and even letting of firecrackers to celebrate.

Anyone who has come into our country need to accept and respect our laws and if they are happy and celebrating with their motherland that has killed so many then maybe they need to go back to their country.

Australians do not celebrate such tragic loss of human life , we mourn with those who loss loved ones

The leader of the Hamas is a terrorist and is equal to Bin Laden .
Any supporters of him should not be in our country

Thank you Suzanne for your support to Israel.
Just a couple of points I wish to rectify.
1. Rockets started being fired into Israel intentionally, on Saturday 7th October, the Jewish Sabbath and Jewish holiday Shemini Atzeret - praying for rain and bonding with God.
It is also, the day before Simchat Torah, when God gave the Jews the Torah.

2. There has NEVER been peace since the Independence of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians have rejected 5x Peace Treaties since then, even when they were given land won by Israel in wars that Palestinians initiated.
Violence and murder toward Jews in Israel, is literally a daily occurrence.

You certainly got it right about the blatant murders of civilians, woman and children.
I recently posted a very graphic video (which has since been removed), taken and proudly displayed by HAMAS, of one teenage girl kidnapped from the desert concert - she was burned alive in front of a crowd of Palestinians laughing, taunting and taking photos!
There have also been reports of babies being beheaded!
This is nothing new from a group that calls themselves 'people'..., but the world needs to know.
Stay safe everyone.

PS: Whilst writing this, news of kidnapped Sydney-born grandmother, Galit Carbone, is confirmed dead.

 

[FrankS]

Hamas are SCUM. People like those who demonstrated support for Hamas in Sydney have No place in Australia.. They should be arrested, have any Australian citizenship revoked, and shipped back to the shithole they came from !

 

[Littleboy8]

Thank you Suzanne for your support to Israel.
Just a couple of points I wish to rectify.
1. Rockets started being fired into Israel intentionally, on Saturday 7th October, the Jewish Sabbath and Jewish holiday Shemini Atzeret - praying for rain and bonding with God.
It is also, the day before Simchat Torah, when God gave the Jews the Torah.

2. There has NEVER been peace since the Independence of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians have rejected 5x Peace Treaties since then, even when they were given land won by Israel in wars that Palestinians initiated.
Violence and murder toward Jews in Israel, is literally a daily occurrence.

You certainly got it right about the blatant murders of civilians, woman and children.
I recently posted a very graphic video (which has since been removed), taken and proudly displayed by HAMAS, of one teenage girl kidnapped from the desert concert - she was burned alive in front of a crowd of Palestinians laughing, taunting and taking photos!
There have also been reports of babies being beheaded!
This is nothing new from a group that calls themselves 'people'..., but the world needs to know.
Stay safe everyone.

PS: Whilst writing this, news of kidnapped Sydney-born grandmother, Galit Carbone, is confirmed dead.

It’s heart wrenching I’ve never cried so much in my life

 

[SEAN]

A worrying new development in the long-running conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas is prompting updated travel warnings for Australian tourists.

Hamas—which has struggled to govern Gaza and remains committed to resisting Israel—has recently launched hundreds of rockets into Israel.

Israel has responded with airstrikes on Gaza, which has prompted Hamas to threaten to kill hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they were 'at war', vowing that Hamas will 'pay an unprecedented price' for their latest offensive.

This eruption of violence has left hundreds dead so far.

For Aussies planning to travel to Israel, the smart move is to avoid going near conflict zones altogether. Smartraveller.gov.au, the government's travel advisory site, warns against visiting Gaza or areas near the Gaza border.

View attachment 31811

Intensifying conflict in the Middle East has prompted Australia to scale up its travel advice. Credit: CNN.

'There's ongoing armed conflict in Southern Israel and Gaza,' the warning reads.

'Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza. There have been separate terror attacks on civilians. Do not travel to Gaza or areas near the border with Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict. The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.'

'Authorities are also monitoring security on Israel's northern border and have asked residents of some towns to evacuate, including in Rosh Hanikra, Adamit, Bezet and Hanita.'

Stay informed through the National Emergency Portal is important if you're currently in Israel. For those in Gaza, it's advised to be vigilant about your surroundings and review your personal security plans.

In case of an emergency where you require consular assistance, you can reach out to +61 2 6261 3305.

However, it's important to note that the government may have limited capacity to assist in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided an update regarding the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip. He mentioned that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials have been working around the clock with Israeli counterparts to address the matter.

'We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,' he said.

'We don't have any further information to announce at this point in time. But obviously, we are concerned, as is the whole world.'

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising that both sides must prioritise the safety of civilians.

'We've said Israel has a right to defend itself (and) we call for all hostages to be released,' she said.

'But we also have a principle position which we would advocate to all nations and all groups and all situations, which is we would urge for the protection of civilian lives and restraint.'

She continued: 'I think Australia should always, in any conflict, be saying we want civilian lives to (be) protected, and that is what I have advocated.'

Despite facing criticism, including from the opposition, for her call for 'restraint,' Senator Wong maintained her position, questioning, 'What's the alternative to Australia urging restraint and the protection of civilian lives?'

She acknowledged that the recent events are an escalation of a long-standing dispute but firmly asserted that nothing justifies the violence, hostage-taking, killing of civilians, and other distressing incidents witnessed during the conflict.

The official also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of Australians in Israel. As of now, there are no reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

Nevertheless, she strongly encourages Australians still in Israel to contact their families if they haven't already done so. Officials are actively working to confirm the status of Australians in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are warned to avoid travelling to Gaza due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
• The government's Smart Traveller website has updated its advice, urging citizens against visiting areas near the Gaza border.
• Those in Gaza or Israel are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and review their security plans.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong asserts that officials are working to ascertain the welfare and safety of Australians in Israel, though there have been no current reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

While the situation remains unstable, Australian authorities are watching things closely. Stay tuned to official government travel advisories for updates.

What are your thoughts on this news, members? Let us know in the comments below.

will mankind never learn (wars kill--remember HIROSHIMA & NEGASAKI)

 

[Tetavo]

A worrying new development in the long-running conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas is prompting updated travel warnings for Australian tourists.

Hamas—which has struggled to govern Gaza and remains committed to resisting Israel—has recently launched hundreds of rockets into Israel.

Israel has responded with airstrikes on Gaza, which has prompted Hamas to threaten to kill hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they were 'at war', vowing that Hamas will 'pay an unprecedented price' for their latest offensive.

This eruption of violence has left hundreds dead so far.

For Aussies planning to travel to Israel, the smart move is to avoid going near conflict zones altogether. Smartraveller.gov.au, the government's travel advisory site, warns against visiting Gaza or areas near the Gaza border.

View attachment 31811

Intensifying conflict in the Middle East has prompted Australia to scale up its travel advice. Credit: CNN.

'There's ongoing armed conflict in Southern Israel and Gaza,' the warning reads.

'Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza. There have been separate terror attacks on civilians. Do not travel to Gaza or areas near the border with Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict. The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country.'

'Authorities are also monitoring security on Israel's northern border and have asked residents of some towns to evacuate, including in Rosh Hanikra, Adamit, Bezet and Hanita.'

Stay informed through the National Emergency Portal is important if you're currently in Israel. For those in Gaza, it's advised to be vigilant about your surroundings and review your personal security plans.

In case of an emergency where you require consular assistance, you can reach out to +61 2 6261 3305.

However, it's important to note that the government may have limited capacity to assist in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided an update regarding the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip. He mentioned that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials have been working around the clock with Israeli counterparts to address the matter.

'We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,' he said.

'We don't have any further information to announce at this point in time. But obviously, we are concerned, as is the whole world.'

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising that both sides must prioritise the safety of civilians.

'We've said Israel has a right to defend itself (and) we call for all hostages to be released,' she said.

'But we also have a principle position which we would advocate to all nations and all groups and all situations, which is we would urge for the protection of civilian lives and restraint.'

She continued: 'I think Australia should always, in any conflict, be saying we want civilian lives to (be) protected, and that is what I have advocated.'

Despite facing criticism, including from the opposition, for her call for 'restraint,' Senator Wong maintained her position, questioning, 'What's the alternative to Australia urging restraint and the protection of civilian lives?'

She acknowledged that the recent events are an escalation of a long-standing dispute but firmly asserted that nothing justifies the violence, hostage-taking, killing of civilians, and other distressing incidents witnessed during the conflict.

The official also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of Australians in Israel. As of now, there are no reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

Nevertheless, she strongly encourages Australians still in Israel to contact their families if they haven't already done so. Officials are actively working to confirm the status of Australians in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are warned to avoid travelling to Gaza due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
• The government's Smart Traveller website has updated its advice, urging citizens against visiting areas near the Gaza border.
• Those in Gaza or Israel are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and review their security plans.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong asserts that officials are working to ascertain the welfare and safety of Australians in Israel, though there have been no current reports of Australians being injured or hospitalised.

While the situation remains unstable, Australian authorities are watching things closely. Stay tuned to official government travel advisories for updates.

What are your thoughts on this news, members? Let us know in the comments below.

I have a trip booked for 6 weeks time and yet DFAT's Smart Traveler travel advice for Israel has not changed! If I ws booked to go tomorrow I would have to forgo my investment of a 50 year dream as you cant claim on travel insurance until DFAT change their travel advice to do not travel. Yes my life is worth more than the cost of the trip but as a pensioner I have been saving for 10 years to go birthday's Christmas you name it my family and friends have been gifting me contributions so my dream trip could happen. I believe DFAT need to change their travel advice.