Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you to Senator Birmingham. In relation to the first question, I have no update to provide to the Senate in relation to the situation regarding hostages. I simply indicate that Australia has privately and publicly called for the release of hostages, and I'm sure we are joined by all in this chamber.

In relation to humanitarian assistance, this has remained challenging, as has the related issue of foreign nationals and civilians being permitted to exit Gaza by the limited number of crossings into the Gaza Strip which are available. We have obviously seen, on many days, indications that this might happen. I spoke to the United Nations coordinator for the Middle East peace process about this, just yesterday. I note some statements overnight from President— (Time expired)