Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has issued a stern warning to Israel regarding its proposed military operations in southern Lebanon, emphasizing Canberra’s firm stance against any occupation of Lebanese territory. The diplomatic exchange occurred during a Tuesday night telephone conversation with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, where Wong expressed grave concerns about the potential expansion of conflict in the region.
This high-level discussion follows Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz announcing plans for Israeli forces to establish control over extensive areas south of Lebanon’s Litani River. Katz described the intended operation as creating a “security zone” between Israel’s northern border (designated as the Blue Line) and the river, purportedly to enhance Israel’s security posture.
The humanitarian situation has reached critical levels with over 1,000 Lebanese casualties reported since hostilities intensified, including more than 100 children killed in Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah positions. The conflict has triggered massive displacement, forcing more than one million people from their homes amid escalating violence.
Minister Wong explicitly communicated Australia’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating: “We do not want to see occupation of southern Lebanon by Israel.” She further urged all parties to adhere strictly to international humanitarian law while emphasizing the imperative protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.
The Australian diplomat also addressed concerning statements from Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who had previously suggested expanding Israel’s borders into Lebanese territory and annexing occupied areas in Gaza and Syria. Additionally, Wong raised alarms about increasing violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank and pressed for the safe return of Australian diplomats to Ramallah, the de facto administrative capital of Palestine.
Historical context underscores the sensitivity of Israeli operations in southern Lebanon, where Israel maintained occupation forces from 1982 until their withdrawal in 2000 following sustained resistance from Hezbollah. The current hostilities represent a significant escalation since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict and subsequent Israeli strikes against Iranian targets.
Wong also reiterated Australia’s condemnation of Iran’s activities in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that Tehran’s “weaponization” of the critical waterway has disrupted global energy supplies and contributed to rising oil prices worldwide, adversely affecting households and businesses across international markets.