Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 43rd Session

Universal Periodic Review of Israel

9 May 2023

Statement by Australia

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia acknowledges Israel’s continued engagement on human rights issues in the Human Rights Council.   

Australia is deeply concerned by escalating violence and human rights violations in Israel and the Palestinian Territories, and unilateral measures that diminish the prospects of a negotiated two-state solution. Australia respects Israel’s right to defend itself, but civilians must be protected.

Australia recommends Israel:

1. Abandon its pursuit of legislation to expand the use of the death penalty.
2. Halt the expansion of settlements and comply with its obligations under international law. As the occupying power, Israel has a responsibility to protect civilians and hold perpetrators of settler violence to account.
3. Cease punitive and collective punishments against Palestinians, such as evictions and home demolitions.