Question Time AU

General Debate

Middle East

House of Representatives · Tuesday 7 October 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

David Smith marked the second anniversary of the attacks on Israel, acknowledging the trauma suffered by victims and the Jewish community. He condemned the violence against civilians on 7 October while highlighting the severe humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, citing high casualty figures and widespread destruction. Smith argued that the current conflict has failed to bring peace or justice and has instead destabilised the wider region. He supported the government's decision to recognise Palestinian statehood as a step toward a two-state solution and called for the release of Australian activists detained during a recent aid flotilla.

Outcome

The debate concluded with no further speakers or formal vote recorded in the provided transcript.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

David Smith (Bean) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Smith acknowledged the horror of the 7 October attacks and the pain of the Jewish community, affirming their right to safety. Smith detailed the extensive destruction in Gaza, noting that at least 80,000 people had died and 160,000 were injured, with widespread starvation and displacement. Smith argued that the war had not prevented future attacks or secured the release of hostages, but had instead expanded regional instability. Smith stated that the government's recognition of Palestinian statehood was a positive move toward achieving a just peace between two states. Smith called for the immediate release of Australian activists detained by Israeli authorities and emphasised the need to break the cycle of violence.