Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Middle East

Senate · Tuesday 4 November 2025

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

At a glance

Senator Faruqi moved that the Senate take note of the Minister for Foreign Affairs' answer regarding the Middle East. Faruqi argued that while the government had quietly directed defence manufacturers to cease direct exports to Israel, this measure was insufficient and failed to address the broader supply chain, including F-35 jets. Faruqi criticised the government for continuing the two-way arms trade and for intimidating protesters at a state-sponsored arms expo in Sydney. The motion was agreed to without further debate.

Outcome

The motion was agreed to.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Mehreen Faruqi (NSW) (Australian Greens) Greens

Faruqi argued that the government's directive to stop direct arms exports to Israel was a limited response driven by public pressure rather than genuine accountability. Faruqi contended that the measure did not halt the flow of F-35 jets or address the broader mechanisms of violence and oppression in the region. Faruqi also criticised the government for intimidating protesters at an arms expo in Sydney while maintaining contracts with weapons manufacturers. Faruqi called for immediate sanctions on Israel and the prosecution of war criminals at The Hague.