Open Letter to the Prime Minister Albanese and Foreign Minister Wong

Dear Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs,

We write to you as Australian citizens living across the unceded Aboriginal lands of NSW, with an urgent appeal concerning the safety and rights of fellow Australians engaged in humanitarian efforts overseas.

We call on you to closely monitor the upcoming mission of Robert Martin and Tania Safi, who are set to join the Handala boat – part of an international effort to break the illegal siege on Gaza and deliver vital humanitarian aid to Palestinians being systematically starved by israel.

This mission is not only an act of conscience – it is a response to a deepening humanitarian crisis. We urge you to act in the interests of justice and safety by ensuring their journey is observed and supported at the highest levels.

The journey to provide aid to Gaza has its risks. The Gaza Freedom Flotilla has historically faced challenges and obstacles, including interception, injuries, killings and detainment by Israeli authorities. As they embark on this noble mission, we must take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of our Australian citizens. Both Australians are on board now sailing towards Gaza.

The tragic loss of Lalzawmi ‘Zomi’ Frankcom’s life serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in bringing humanitarian aid to Palestine. We cannot afford to overlook the safety of our fellow Australians, and we must take every precaution necessary to prevent any further loss of life. We urge you to allocate the necessary resources and attention to closely monitor the progress of Robert and Tania mission to Gaza. They must be provided with adequate support and protection to carry out their humanitarian duties safely and effectively.

Furthermore, we implore you to engage with relevant Israeli and international authorities to ensure that our humanitarian workers are afforded the protection and respect they deserve under international law.

One life lost is already one too many. We cannot allow any more tragedies to occur. The safety and well-being of our citizens must be our foremost priority, especially in times of humanitarian crisis.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I trust that you will take the necessary steps to safeguard the lives of Robert and Tania as they are trying to deliver urgent humanitarian relief to Gaza. Something that the governments of the world including Australia have failed to do.

Australian nationals’ journey can be monitored via their Instagram accounts: @robert_martin_palestine_ and @taniasafi.

Freedom Flotilla account: https://www.instagram.com/gazafreedomflotilla/

Free Gaza Australia – member of Freedom Flotilla account: https://www.instagram.com/freegazaaustralia/

Sincerely,

Families for Palestine Community Group Sydney/Gadigal

Newcastle Mums for Palestine

Wollongong friends of Palestine