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

Through the chair. ASIO head, Mike Burgess, said:

We all need to watch our language because there is a direct connection between inflamed language and inflamed tension and violence.

So I would have hoped—

An honourable senator interjecting—

In terms of loss of life, I think you've heard me very clearly, including at the UN, talk about the loss of life. You have heard me, including at the United Nations General Assembly in our national statement, speak very directly about the loss of life. We take a principled position that we mourn the loss of all lives, all civilian lives. The answer I gave to Senator Birmingham before about international law—that includes protection for civilians and the need to be proportionate in your response. That remains our position, and we will continue to work with the international community. (Time expired)