MARITIME UNION OF AUSTRALIA
STATEMENT
4 JUNE 2025
MARITIME WORKERS CONDEMN BLOCKADE OF GAZA, DEMAND CEASEFIRE AND RESTORATION OF HUMANITARIAN AID
The Maritime Union of Australia stands as part of a global movement committed to peace, justice and solidarity with people living in the Middle East under the constant threat of violence, war and oppression.
We are appalled by the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.
The MUA reiterates our continued opposition to the atrocities being committed against the Palestinian people, echoing previous resolutions and statements made in recent months and years by our Union and its various branches.
We strongly condemn the Israeli Government's blockade, in place since 2 March, which has restricted the entry of food and humanitarian aid into Gaza and which places over two million Palestinians at risk of mass starvation.
Efforts to dismantle the established aid distribution system managed by the United Nations and humanitarian agencies in favour of an Israeli military-led system violate core humanitarian principles and leave vast areas of Gaza without lifesaving assistance.
We oppose the escalation of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, including ground invasions in both the north and south, intensified airstrikes, and the declared intention of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to seize control of the Gaza Strip and forcibly displace hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.
The MUA condemns the use of starvation as a weapon of war. We call on Israel to comply fully with the orders of the International Court of Justice - to prevent acts of genocide, stop incitement to genocide, and ensure the delivery of humanitarian assistance and essential services to Palestinians in Gaza.
Israel must immediately allow unrestricted access to aid and essential supplies.
We stand in unwavering solidarity with workers on the front lines - particularly health workers - who are risking their lives to care for the injured and starving amid bombings and blockade.
We also call for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas and condemn all violations of human rights.
The MUA urges the Australian Government to act decisively in the pursuit of peace, justice, and adherence to international law by:
- Applying all available diplomatic and economic pressure - including targeted sanctions - to bring about a permanent ceasefire and compel the Israeli Government to cease military operations in Gaza, allow the free flow of humanitarian aid, and respect human rights and international law.
- Coordinating efforts with the United Nations, international humanitarian agencies and allies to send an emergency humanitarian convoy to Gaza, ensuring safe and unimpeded delivery of aid.
- Halting all military exports to Israel, including parts and components, and working internationally to guarantee that no Australian exports support violations of international law.
- Supporting global efforts to investigate and prosecute breaches of international law.
- Establishing urgent humanitarian visa pathways and fast-tracking pending visa applications for Palestinians fleeing the crisis in Gaza.
- Formally recognising the State of Palestine.
The MUA calls for an end to the occupation of Palestine by Israel and a just, lasting peace based on UN Security Council resolutions - including the dismantling of illegal settlements, the withdrawal of Israel from occupied Palestinian territories, and the removal of the separation wall.
Consistent with our support for a two-state solution based on secure borders for both peoples, we urge all nations to recognise Palestine as a sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Recognition of Palestinian statehood is essential to the realisation of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination in a free and independent homeland.
A two-state solution remains the only path to genuine peace, safety, and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis.
