Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says officials “remain concerned” about Australians in Gaza.
“We want Australians and other citizens to be able to leave, and we’re continuing to work through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to achieve that,” he said.
“It is important that we recognise that the attacks from Hamas on Israel are worthy of absolute condemnation in an unequivocal way.
“It’s also important to recognise that Israel has a right to defend itself, but how it does that matters.
“And we need to make sure as well that every civilian life is valued, whether it be Israeli or Palestinian.
“Every innocent loss of life is a tragedy.
“And that’s why we remain very concerned and continue to put forward our case while we’ve provided humanitarian assistance as well to Gaza, some $25 million has been provided so far. The people of Gaza, innocent people, are suffering.”