Nick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I am very grateful to Senator Abetz for his contribution. It was remiss of me not to include the Egyptian blockade. I do not have the expertise that Senator Abetz clearly has in foreign affairs. I think it is a fair point. Clearly the blockade, whether it is by Israel or Egypt, on Gaza and the impact on the Palestinian people is something that is causing detriment and that should be noted. That was the intent of the motion. I seek your guidance, Mr Deputy President, as to whether I can withdraw my previous amendment and move another amendment which would incorporate Egypt as well as Israel in terms of the blockade. This could be dealt with to incorporate the concerns raised by Senator Abetz, and I am grateful, genuinely, to him for raising that.