/qresearch/ -  Q Research

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‘Extraordinary and dangerous acts’: Iran blamed for two antisemitic attacks on Australian soil

In response, Iran’s ambassador to Australia has been expelled and the Australian embassy in Tehran shut down.

Matthew Knott and Paul Sakkal - August 26, 2025

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Iran’s ambassador to Australia has been expelled and the Australian embassy in Tehran shuttered after the stunning revelation that Iran directed at least two high-profile attacks on the Australian Jewish community.

The most dangerous example of foreign interference in modern Australian history also prompted the Albanese government to designate Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation, a move applauded by local Jewish groups.

The nation’s top spy agency believes that Iran was responsible for plotting arson attacks against Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in Sydney and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne last October and December, respectively.

The incidents, particularly the Melbourne synagogue attack, fuelled accusations that the government had been soft on antisemitism and helped damage diplomatic relations between Australia and Israel.

“It is likely Iran directed further attacks as well. These were extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil,” Albanese said at a press conference in Parliament House alongside ASIO boss Mike Burgess, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke on Tuesday afternoon.

“They were attempts to undermine social cohesion and sow discord in our community. It is totally unacceptable. The Australian government is taking strong and decisive action in response.”

The synagogue and kitchen both suffered significant damage in the attacks, but there were no injuries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last year linked the Australian government’s “extreme anti-Israel position” and voting record at the United Nations to the firebombing of the synagogue in a social media post attacking the government.

This is the first time Australia has expelled an ambassador since World War II, reflecting the seriousness of the foreign interference plot.

Burgess said that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had used “a complex web of proxies” to hide its involvement in antisemitic attacks on Australian soil. He said he did not believe Iran was responsible for all antisemitic attacks in Australia, but they may be responsible for more than the two announced on Tuesday.

“We have investigated dozens of incidents,” Burgess said. “ASIO now assesses the Iranian government directed at least two and likely more attacks on Jewish interests in Australia.

“Our painstaking investigation uncovered and unpicked the links between the alleged crimes and the commanders in Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC.

“Iran and its proxies literally and figuratively lit the matches and fanned the flames. I want to assure all Australians that ASIO and our law enforcement partners take these matters extremely seriously.”

Burgess described Iran’s involvement in the incidents as a “layer cake of cutouts” between the IRGC and the alleged perpetrators. When asked if there was organised crime involvement in the attacks, Burgess said there was an “organised crime element offshore”.

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Wong said Iranian officials would have seven days to leave the country, and that this was the first time since World War II that an ambassador had been expelled from Australia.

“There is no doubt that these extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil have crossed a line, and that is why we have declared Iran’s ambassador to Australia persona non grata,” Wong said.

“Iran has sought to undermine the cohesion of our community. They have tried to divide the Australian community, and they’ve done so with acts of aggression that not only sought to terrify Australians but put Australian lives in danger.”

Burke declared Iran was motivated by antisemitism when it commissioned attacks on Jewish interests in Australia and that the government would introduce a “new regime” under the criminal code to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp as a terrorist organisation.

“This is an unprecedented attack on our society,” Burke said.

“The existing [terrorist listing] regime, designed decades ago, was not intended to deal with the threats we are now facing,” Burke said.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley backed the government’s response, saying that Iran’s involvement was an attempt to “turn neighbour against neighbour and Australian against Australian”.

“We are all disgusted to learn of the serious and chilling foreign interference which has been perpetrated by the Islamic Republic of Iran on Australian soil,” she said.

Israel’s embassy in Canberra applauded the government for designating the IRGC a terrorist organisation, saying it was a step it had long advocated for.

“Iran’s regime is not only a threat to Jews or Israel, it endangers the entire free world, including Australia,” the embassy said. “A strong and important move.”

Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler said that the government’s actions sent a “powerful and principled message”.

“Today’s announcement proves what we have long warned; that Iran’s malign reach extends into western democracies, including here in Australia,” he said.

Executive Council of Australian Jewry president Daniel Aghion thanked ASIO and the police for their investigation, saying: “Israel’s enemies are Australia’s enemies … The same regime that helped plan the October 7 atrocities, directed Hezbollah to open a second front against Israel, attacked Israel directly with ballistic missiles and threatened it with nuclear annihilation, is responsible for plotting and executing attacks against Australians.”

https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/iran-suspected-of-involvement-in-synagogue-arson-attack-20250826-p5mpx8.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1P2cMBqOmM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfidAV0MY_g

https://qresear.ch/?q=Adass+Israel

https://qresear.ch/?q=Ahmad+Sadeghi

Porepunkah shooting: Weapons stolen from fatally wounded officers, alleged offender a ‘sovereign citizen’

Cameron Houston and Carla Jaeger - August 26, 2025

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The alleged gunman who fatally shot two police officers in Porepunkah on Tuesday has been identified as Dezi Freeman, a 56-year-old conspiracy theorist who has repeatedly espoused hatred for police and authorities.

Freeman, a self-proclaimed “sovereign citizen”, remains on the run from police with his wife, Mali, and at least one other family member.

Freeman allegedly shot two officers dead and seriously wounded another after a shooting at a rural property in the small town of Porepunkah, about 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne and seven kilometres from Bright.

Freeman made headlines in 2021 when he attempted to privately prosecute then-premier Daniel Andrews on treason and fraud charges.

Freeman was arrested outside the Myrtleford Court before the December 2021 hearing, where he described the officers as “scumbags” and “criminal filth” who were “obsessed with power”. On another occasion, in 2020, he called an officer who pulled him over for speeding a “terrorist” and “corrupt scum”.

In a statement issued late on Tuesday afternoon, Victoria Police said 10 police had attended the property on Rayner Track, which runs south off Mount Buffalo Road, shortly after 10.30am on Tuesday when the shooting occurred. A call for urgent help at the property was made at 10.55am. No other officers were physically injured, but they remain at the property along with members of the special operations group and critical incident response team.

Three police sources, not authorised to speak on behalf of the force, told this masthead that police had attended the property to execute a warrant over historical sex abuse allegations when Freeman allegedly shot the two officers dead in an ambush and wounded the other.

Police sources confirmed earlier on Tuesday that Freeman was living on a bus on the property and was now on the run with family members, including children and his wife, Mali.

However, at a press conference, Victoria Police chief commissioner Mike Bush could not confirm whether Freeman fled into the bush alone, nor did he confirm his identity as reported by this masthead.

“He was seen going into the bush alone. We don’t know exactly where his wife is at the moment or the children, and we have no information to suggest whether he is with or without them,” Bush said.

“We are still looking to locate his partner and two children, but he was not seen to head into the bush with them.”

Two weapons were stolen from the fatally wounded officers, this masthead has been told.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still being determined, and it remains an active and ongoing situation,” the Victoria Police statement said. “A significant search is actively under way to locate the man.”

Sovereign citizens are considered to be part of a radicalised fringe group which follows conspiracy theories and believes the government is illegitimate. Members of this fringe group are known for their deep distrust of, and contempt for, law enforcement.

To reflect his beliefs, Freeman had changed his name.

Bush confirmed the deaths and said the wounded officer was undergoing surgery.

“This is a terribly tragic event for the Victoria Police, the police family,” Bush said. “It’s also very important that we wrap ourselves around the friends, family and colleagues of these officers who so bravely gave their lives to support their communities.”

Police urged people in and around Porepunkah to remain indoors until further notice and asked people not to travel into the area.

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Marles gets last-minute meeting with Hegseth

Richard Marles also met with JD Vance on his trip to Washington but we don’t know what they talked about as a planned press conference was cancelled.

JOE KELLY - August 27, 2025

Richard Marles has managed to secure a last-minute meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, along with US Vice President JD Vance on his trip to Washington – although a planned press conference has been cancelled.

The Australian Deputy Prime Minister is also expected to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later on Tuesday local time after holding further discussions with defence industry companies during the day including Boeing.

The Australian first revealed that Mr Marles, who also serves as Australia’s Defence Minister, had not locked in a meeting with Mr Hegseth on Monday night local time – despite publicly saying on the weekend that this was the reason for his trip to Washington.

The Australian understands that Mr Marles also met with White House Deputy Chief of Staff, Stephen Miller, on Tuesday morning local time.

It is not yet clear how long or comprehensive the meeting with Mr Vance and Mr Hegseth was, or what issues the trio discussed.

However, taking to social media, Mr Marles posted photos of himself standing alongside both Mr Vance and Mr Hegseth.

He said: “The Alliance between Australia and the United States is longstanding, built on our shared history of deep collaboration.”

“I was pleased to have the opportunity to reaffirm Australia’s commitment to building on this partnership with US @VP JD Vance and Secretary of Defense @PeteHegseth in Washington D.C. today,” he added.

A press conference planned with Mr Marles before his departure back to Australia at 7pm local time has been cancelled.

The trip from Mr Marles comes amid a Pentagon review into the landmark AUKUS partnership under which Washington is scheduled to provide Canberra with at least three Virginia class submarines from the early 2030s.

Mr Hegseth has previously asked Mr Marles for Australia to increase its defence budget to 3.5 per cent of GDP – a request that has not been accepted by the Albanese government.

Anthony Albanese has yet to meet with Donald Trump and there is speculation about whether he will have a chance when he travels to America next month to address the UN General Assembly.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/marles-gets-last-minute-meeting-with-hegseth/news-story/71422050312af703f993609c10742c7d

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_vcNmBzlQ

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Iranian ambassador conducts dramatic press conference before leaving Australia

Nick Bonyhady - August 28, 2025

Men accompanying Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi have been filmed berating journalists attempting to interview the envoy as he departed Sydney on Thursday evening after being ordered out of the country.

Australian intelligence services revealed on Tuesday that they had concluded that the Iranian regime’s state militia had funded and directed at least two antisemitic attacks on Australian soil, prompting the Albanese government to expel Sadeghi.

The outgoing ambassador denied Iran had any involvement in the arson attacks that gutted Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in Bondi and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne in late 2024 and said the theocratic state was peaceful. Sadeghi said, without evidence, that the agencies’ conclusions could have come from a “conspiracy against our friendly relations with Australia.”

Before Sadeghi spoke to reporters, men accompanying him raised their voices at journalists attempting to interview the envoy and accused them of uncritically accepting the work of Australia’s intelligence services.

“You’re a pack of stenographers. That’s all you are, and it’s a disgrace. Is that really what you study? Is that really the pinnacle of your career,” one of the men said. “What a disgrace. What a disgrace.”

Sadeghi went to check in shortly after being interviewed. There are no direct flights from Australia to Iran, but there are connections via Gulf states and Turkey. The ambassador leaving the nation comes just over 48 hours after the revelations of foreign interference by Iran were made public.

The ambassador was on Tuesday called in to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade headquarters in Canberra, and told he had just days to leave the country.

The meeting took place just before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australia’s intelligence services told the nation that Iran was being accused of being involved in antisemitic attacks on Australian soil. They made clear that Sadeghi and his embassy staff were not involved in the incidents.

He was then photographed at Iran’s Canberra embassy on Wednesday, and staff during the same day were seen at both the embassy and the ambassador’s residence with moving boxes.

He said his expulsion has come about as a result of a “misunderstanding” in the relationship between Australia and Iran. The outgoing ambassador claimed that Iran has a large Jewish community to counter criticism that Iran has long sponsored antisemitic attacks via proxy forces abroad.

“I’m telling you they’re ordinary, just they have the synagogues,” Sadeghi said. “I can just send, you know, the videos of how they practice.”

In recent years, ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has warned that Iran, alongside China and Russia, was among the most pernicious practitioners of foreign interference in Australia.

Iran, and the nation’s powerful armed forces group the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have been accused of acts of terror and other crimes in Western democracies, including, among others, the US, Spain and France. The revolutionary guard will be listed as a terror group after Tuesday’s revelations.

Burgess said on Tuesday that security agencies had investigated dozens of incidents of antisemitism in Australia. “ASIO now assesses the Iranian government directed at least two and likely more attacks on Jewish interests in Australia,” he said.

Australia has also shuttered its embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran. Eight Australians, six embassy staff and two dependents, were moved to a third country for their own safety on Monday.

It’s estimated that between 3000 and 4000 Australians, or dual citizens, live in Iran. The Australian government has advised Australians not to travel to Iran and warned they could be subject to arbitrary detention.

As he left, Sadeghi admitted his final days in the country had been challenging but kept a brave face. Australians, he said, were “very nice people”.

https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/iranian-ambassador-conducts-dramatic-press-conference-before-leaving-australia-20250828-p5mqqj.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NNxvZb4SaA

General Research #28657

Tony Burke’s ‘nothing could be less Australian’ slur on immigration march protesters exposes Canberra elite's preference for every flag except their own

by Noel Yaxley August 30, 2025

The protesters rallying for migration control on Sunday aren't knuckle-dragging racists, but normal people who think open borders is a bad thing – that's something that will shake the progressive activists to their core, writes Noel Yaxley.

The March for Australia rallies are barely 24 hours away, and it appears Tony Burke has acquired a sudden craving for patriotism.

According to the Home Affairs Minister, “nothing could be less Australian” than the planned demonstrations.

Unfortunately, the flag to which the majority of the ruling class swears allegiance seems pretty different from the one most regular folks rally around.

Throughout the year, high-status flags, like the Pride flag, hang on every high street and building, symbolising a hostile foreign ideology colonising the country.

It signals the elite’s preference for every flag but Australia’s.

Those Burke disingenuously characterises as un-Australian are decent people who believe Australia is a tolerant, liberal society.

They are not ashamed of their country’s past and accept nuanced interpretations of history, unlike those who wallow in perpetual racial grievance.

Even though they have been criticised for being out of touch with modern Australia, they are not the ones who react to the national flag like a vampire to sunlight.

Your ordinary Australian is not the knuckle-dragging racist that the media and academic class portray.

This weekend’s march will draw attention to how mass migration and poor governance are accelerating Australia’s transformation.

According to ABS data, more than 1,000 migrants enter Australia each day under the Albanese government.

From June 2022 to December 2024, more than a million people arrived.

As a result, a third of the population is foreign born, the largest proportion since 1893.

https://www.skynews.com.au/insights-and-analysis/tony-burkes-nothing-could-be-less-australian-slur-on-immigration-march-protesters-exposes-canberra-elites-preference-for-every-flag-except-their-own/news-story/f33c17a896e6d29b504f9e4ce0f5fac8

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Magic Sword - In The Face Of Evil

Magic Sword

Jan 8, 2015

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G02wKufX3nw

Notables

are not endorsements

#42 - Part 1

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 1

>>23252491 Video: Wissam Haddad escalates violent rhetoric on eve of hate speech verdict – Jewish leaders are bracing for a Federal Court decision on whether Sydney cleric Wissam Haddad breached section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act. Haddad, long accused of promoting extremist views, described Jews as “vile” and “treacherous” in sermons at his Bankstown centre and has since escalated his rhetoric online, invoking swords against Jews and Christians. The case, brought by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, seeks injunctions to stop future vilification. It comes as NSW crossbenchers move to repeal hate speech laws linked to the discredited Dural caravan plot.

>>23256499 Kevin Rudd says US, Donald Trump have chance to build stable Middle East – Australia’s ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, praised Donald Trump’s intervention in the Israel-Iran conflict, giving him “full marks” for brokering a ceasefire and suggesting it could open a path to a two-state solution for Palestine. Speaking at the Aspen Ideals Festival, Rudd said degrading Iran’s nuclear program met Israeli security interests and created “an opportunity to secure the future” if Netanyahu could be persuaded. He added Trump’s pressure on NATO allies had succeeded, while cautioning China remained focused on Taiwan and prepared to use force if necessary.

>>23265100 Federal Court orders series of Islamic preacher Wissam Haddad's lectures be removed from social media – The Federal Court has ruled that lectures by Sydney preacher Wissam Haddad, delivered at Bankstown’s Al Madina Dawah Centre, contained “fundamentally racist and antisemitic” material and must be removed from social media. Justice Angus Stewart found the speeches breached the Racial Discrimination Act by portraying Jews as “wicked,” “vile,” and “descendants of apes and pigs,” rejecting Haddad’s defence that they drew only on scripture. The judge said the imputations were “devastatingly offensive,” with serious effects on Jewish Australians. Haddad must also post corrective notices for 30 days, with costs likely awarded to the ECAJ.

>>23278918 Video: Restaurant stormed and synagogue targeted in night of antisemitic attacks in Melbourne – A Melbourne synagogue was set on fire while 20 people, including children, were inside for Shabbat dinner, and Israeli restaurant Miznon was stormed by masked people shouting offensive chants, including “death to the IDF”. Firefighters quickly contained the synagogue blaze, captured on CCTV, but police are still searching for the arsonist. Premier Jacinta Allan, Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece and Jewish leaders condemned the attacks as cowardly, racist and dangerous. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry warned antisemitism is worsening, demanding perpetrators face the full force of the law.

>>23278968 PM wants ‘full force of the law’ as Sussan Ley, Josh Frydenberg slam ‘hate’ in Melbourne anti-Jewish attacks – Anthony Albanese condemned Friday night’s synagogue arson and violent protest at Israeli restaurant Miznon, vowing anti-Semites “must face the full force of the law.” Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke called the attacks “evil,” while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said, “This is not protest. This is hate.” Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg labelled it a “hate crime,” and opposition spokesman Julian Leeser called it “a very sad day for Australia.” Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel branded the incidents “terrorism” and accused Canberra of weakness against rising antisemitism.

>>23279036 Attempted synagogue firebombing no act of terror, say police – Victoria Police confirmed three anti-Semitic incidents in Melbourne, including an arson attack on East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, but stopped short of declaring terrorism. Commander Zorka Dunstan said 20 worshippers escaped unharmed, while CCTV shows the suspect carrying a duffle bag before lighting the doors. Hours earlier, 20 protesters stormed Israeli-owned restaurant Miznon chanting “death to the IDF,” damaging property before police intervened. A third incident saw cars torched and spray-painted in Greensborough. All cases are under Counter-terrorism Command review, with police calling the crimes “abhorrent” but currently treating them as serious criminal acts.

#42 - Part 2

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 2

>>23283256 Video: Man charged after alleged arson attack on Melbourne synagogue – Angelo Loras, 34, from NSW, has been charged with reckless conduct endangering life, criminal damage by fire and weapon possession after the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation’s doors were allegedly set alight, forcing 20 people to flee. Police are probing intent and ideology to determine terrorism links. On the same night, protesters chanting “death to the IDF” attacked Israeli restaurant Miznon, cars were torched in Greensborough, and antisemitic graffiti appeared in Elsternwick. Anthony Albanese condemned the synagogue arson as “cowardly.” Benjamin Netanyahu called the incidents “reprehensible anti-Semitic attacks” and urged Australia to “take all action” against those responsible.

>>23283300 Protesters continue anti-IDF chant at Melbourne rally following antisemitic attacks – At a Melbourne rally on Sunday, children led chants of “Death to the IDF” just 48 hours after an arson attack on East Melbourne Synagogue forced 20 worshippers to flee. Organisers condemned the synagogue attack, but police continue to probe links between Miznon restaurant agitators and known violent protest groups. Angelo Loras, 34, was charged with the synagogue arson and remanded until July 22. State Opposition Leader Brad Battin demanded stronger police powers, while Jewish MP David Southwick accused Premier Jacinta Allan’s government of delaying promised protections, leaving Victoria’s Jewish community “under siege.”

>>23288313 Victorian government announces new police taskforce in wake of 'sickening' antisemitic attacks – The Victorian government has launched an Anti-Hate Taskforce after antisemitic attacks across Melbourne, including an arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation that forced 20 worshippers to flee. Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the “sickening crime” and pledged stronger police powers, saying the taskforce would “look at the bigger picture” of hate across Victoria. A 34-year-old Sydney man has been charged. Other incidents included protesters storming Israeli restaurant Miznon, cars torched in Greensborough, and antisemitic graffiti near a Holocaust museum. Anthony Albanese called the attacks “completely unacceptable.”

>>23293950 Anthony Albanese to launch plan to tackle anti-Semitism ‘in days’ – Anthony Albanese will unveil a new anti-Semitism strategy with special envoy Jillian Segal after synagogue and restaurant attacks in Melbourne. Albanese labelled anti-Semitism a “scourge” and pledged stronger protections for Jewish schools, synagogues and organisations. Segal’s plan, informed by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry’s 15-point blueprint, is expected to focus on violent slogans, education reforms and visa rules. Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said recent events showed “a violent ideology that not only chants ‘death to Zionists’ but threatens police, elected officials and public safety … the intifada is being globalised.”

>>23293962 Three charged over altercation at Israeli-owned restaurant Miznon in Melbourne CBD – Three people have been charged after protesters stormed Israeli-owned restaurant Miznon in Melbourne on Friday night, hurling chairs and damaging a glass door. Police allege the accused — a 50-year-old man, a 48-year-old woman and a 28-year-old woman — left a Swanston Street protest before targeting the venue. The incident occurred the same night as a synagogue arson attack and car fires in Greensborough, though police say no links are established. Miznon, partly owned by Gaza Humanitarian Foundation spokesman Shahar Segal, said it “welcomes people of all backgrounds” and condemned the violence.

>>23293989 Video: Benjamin Netanyahu nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his “bold leadership” in brokering the Abraham Accords and pursuing peace in the Middle East. Netanyahu said Trump’s leadership showed “dialogue, not extremism,” while warning a Palestinian state would be “a platform to destroy Israel.” Trump, fresh from ordering strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, confirmed Iran had requested talks. Netanyahu set three red lines for a ceasefire with Hamas: its destruction, exile of its leaders, and disarmament. Washington, Qatar and Egypt are brokering a 60-day ceasefire deal.

#42 - Part 3

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 3

>>23304723 Video: Plan to tackle antisemitism: Funding threats for unis, school curriculum changes in bid to change ‘dangerous trajectory’ – Jillian Segal, Australia’s first special envoy on antisemitism, has delivered a landmark plan proposing mandatory Holocaust education, adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Association’s definition of antisemitism, stricter oversight of universities and media, and potential funding cuts to institutions, charities or cultural events that fail to act. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released the report with Segal, pledging swift but balanced implementation and urging bipartisanship. Mainstream Jewish groups welcomed the blueprint, while civil liberties advocates, Palestinian activists and the Jewish Council of Australia warned it risks undermining free speech.

>>23304735 Gaza woman living in Sydney detained in pre-dawn raid following ASIO security risk ruling – A 61-year-old grandmother from Gaza, Maha Almassri, was detained in a pre-dawn raid on her Bankstown home after the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation issued an adverse assessment declaring her a security risk. Her bridging visa was cancelled under the Migration Act’s character test, with the decision signed by Assistant Immigration Minister Julian Hill. Ms Almassri was taken to Villawood Immigration Detention Centre, prompting a rally outside Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s office. Family members denied she posed any threat, while the government cited national security and refused further comment.

>>23314345 Anthony Albanese takes strong stand on anti-Semitism ‘but attacks must stop’ – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese backed envoy Jillian Segal’s anti-Semitism plan, vowing to strip funding from universities, festivals and institutions that fail to act, train border officials to screen anti-Semites, and enforce a nationwide definition of anti-Jewish hate. Albanese declared anti-Semitism “an evil scourge,” condemning recent violence while maintaining criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Jewish leaders, including Israel’s ambassador Amir Maimon, Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and Alon Cassuto of the Zionist Federation of Australia, praised the plan but demanded swift implementation. Opposition spokesman Julian Leeser warned Albanese would be judged on results, not rhetoric, while legal and community groups urged full adoption.

>>23323852 Video: Masked figure claims responsibility for anti-Israel firebombing, threatens weapons workers – A masked figure in a video claimed responsibility for the July 5 firebombing of weapons manufacturer Lovitt Technologies in Greensborough, Victoria, and threatened further violence against its workers. Police said the four-minute video, filmed before a Palestinian flag, is being reviewed by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team. The man used voice-altering software, warned employees he had their addresses, and demonstrated how to firebomb cars. Victoria’s Police Minister Anthony Carbines condemned the threats as incitement to violence, while Jewish leaders likened the group to “an al-Qa’ida terror cell.”

>>23338415 Charges laid but orchestrators behind synagogue attack remain a mystery – Investigators say the December 2024 firebombing of Melbourne’s Adass Israel synagogue, declared a likely terrorist incident, has “hit a wall” due to encryption and disposable street gangs concealing those who ordered it. A 20-year-old man has been charged only over the theft of the blue VW Golf used in the attack, but no terrorism charges have been laid. The Joint Counter Terrorism Taskforce (JCTT) maintains it was politically motivated, with $31m pledged for rebuilding and security. Officials believe multiple offenders remain at large, shielded by encrypted networks linking Melbourne’s wider arson-for-hire underworld.

>>23338446 Jason Clare flags ‘months’ until anti-Semitism response – Education Minister Jason Clare says the government will wait for reports on Islamophobia and wider racism before acting on Jillian Segal’s nearly 50 recommendations to combat anti-Semitism, including stripping funding from universities that fail to act. Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief Alex Ryvchin said the Jewish community cannot wait, warning the crisis has lasted “more than 21 months and counting.” Labor MP Ed Husic urged against “heavy-handed” measures, cautioning young Australians’ reactions to the Middle East should not be assumed to lead to anti-Semitism. Clare backed Husic’s call for careful consideration.

#42 - Part 4

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 4

>>23338461 Hate preacher can’t ‘bury’ court-ordered corrective social media posts – The Federal Court has ordered Wissam Haddad, also known as Abu Ousayd, to post pinned corrective notices on his social media admitting unlawful racial vilification of Jews, rejecting his attempt to avoid “advertising” them. Justice Angus Stewart ruled Haddad breached section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act and granted the Executive Council of Australian Jewry a muzzle order to prevent future discrimination. ECAJ’s Peter Wertheim welcomed the decision as essential to counteracting harm, warning Haddad could face contempt if he breaches the order.

>>23348117 Gaza woman living in Sydney released from detention after ASIO security risk ruling – Palestinian grandmother Maha Almassri, 61, dubbed “Gaza Gran,” was released from Villawood detention a week after ASIO deemed her a security risk and her bridging visa was cancelled. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s office declined to explain, citing national security, while noting no previous adverse assessments had led to visas being reinstated. Opposition spokesman Andrew Hastie called the handling “shambolic,” demanding answers on how she could be freed. Her family denies she failed the “character test” and supporters protested outside Burke’s office.

>>23361911 Australia, UK, France and other nations call for immediate end to war in Gaza – Twenty-eight countries, including Australia, the UK, France and Japan, signed a joint statement demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The statement, signed by Foreign Minister Penny Wong, condemned Israel’s “drip feeding of aid” and “inhumane killing” of Palestinians, noting more than 800 people have died near aid sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke called it Australia’s strongest language yet. Israel rejected the statement as “disconnected from reality”, blaming Hamas for prolonging the war. The US did not sign.

>>23361918 Labor brands Israeli conduct in Gaza ‘indefensible’ after 28-nation statement – Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke declared Israel’s actions in Gaza “indefensible” after Australia joined 27 countries in condemning the “horrifying” killing of Palestinians and demanding an immediate ceasefire. The joint statement, signed by Penny Wong, criticised Israel’s “drip feeding” of aid and warned against forced removal of Palestinians. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee called the statement “disgusting”, while Israel’s top diplomat in Australia, Amir Maimon, said it was “disconnected from reality”. The UN reported 875 deaths near aid sites since July 13.

>>23361926 Pro-Palestine protesters disrupt opening of parliament – Seventeen activists were detained inside Parliament House after chanting “free, free Palestine” during Governor-General Sam Mostyn’s speech, while hundreds more rallied outside, some clashing with police. Greens deputy leader Mehreen Faruqi held a “Sanction Israel” sign and shouted at Anthony Albanese, while Bob Katter retorted “they started it” in reference to Hamas’s October 7 attacks. Demonstrators displayed images of dead children and staged mock funerals; one man stood on a police car before being ordered down. The protest followed Labor’s strongest rebuke of Israel yet, co-signing a 28-nation letter condemning civilian deaths and aid restrictions in Gaza.

>>23367254 Police scour devices of man accused of East Melbourne Synagogue firebombing – Angelo Loras, 34, has been charged with arson, reckless conduct endangering life and criminal damage after allegedly firebombing the East Melbourne Synagogue on July 4 while 20 worshippers were inside. Police say he poured flammable liquid on the doors before setting them alight, causing $5000 damage. No injuries were reported. Two of Loras’ electronic devices are being examined to determine motive, which could escalate the case to a higher court if evidence is found. The incident is being investigated for potential terrorism links amid rising antisemitic acts in Melbourne.

>>23383895 PM labels Gaza a 'humanitarian catastrophe' and reaffirms aspiration for Palestinian statehood – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has labelled the Gaza conflict a "humanitarian catastrophe" and reiterated Australia's commitment to a two-state solution. He condemned Israel’s actions, including denial of aid and civilian casualties, calling on Israel to comply with international law. While France plans to officially recognise Palestine, Albanese did not directly address this move but affirmed Australia's long-standing position on a Palestinian state. Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that Australia would not follow France’s lead but would continue to push for a ceasefire and increased aid to Gaza.

#42 - Part 5

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 5

>>23388321 ‘We won’t make a decision as a gesture’: Albanese says no imminent move to recognise Palestine – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rejected calls for Australia to immediately recognise Palestine, stating the decision would be made at the "appropriate time." He condemned Israel's restrictions on aid to Gaza as a breach of international law and morality but said Australia would only recognise Palestine once key conditions, such as the removal of Hamas from power, are met. Former foreign minister Bob Carr and other Labor figures urged quicker recognition, but Albanese emphasized that any recognition should be substantive, not symbolic.

>>23392664 NSW premier resists calls for pro-Palestinian 'March for Humanity' on Sydney Harbour Bridge – NSW Premier Chris Minns has opposed a proposed pro-Palestinian march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, citing concerns over public safety and potential chaos. The Palestine Action Group Sydney planned the march for August 3 to protest the "extraordinary situation" in Gaza, highlighting the impact of Israeli restrictions and humanitarian concerns. Minns argued that the bridge, a critical infrastructure, could not accommodate such a protest without causing significant disruption. The group has called for more time to plan and support the march, while the NSW opposition and police have suggested alternative protest routes.

>>23392689 Sydney Harbour Bridge protest showdown looms after Chris Minns’ intervention – Premier Chris Minns has opposed a planned pro-Palestinian march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, citing public safety concerns and the potential for chaos. Palestine Action Group Sydney intends to hold the "March for Humanity" on August 3 to protest the suffering in Gaza. The Premier's opposition has sparked defiance from organizers, with spokesperson Josh Lees saying they would proceed with the march if negotiations fail. While some, including Greens MP Sue Higginson, support the protest, others, like Opposition Leader Mark Speakman, argue that alternative protest locations should be used.

>>23397904 PM brands Israel’s denial of starvation reports in Gaza ‘beyond comprehension’ – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claim that there is no starvation in Gaza, calling it “beyond comprehension.” Albanese criticized Israel’s role in restricting media access and said claims of no starvation were part of Hamas’ propaganda. While Albanese continues to oppose Hamas’ control of Gaza, he indicated that the region could eventually be freed from their rule, paving the way for Palestinian state recognition. The remarks come amid ongoing conflict and international disputes over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

>>23397960 NSW Police to block Sydney Harbour Bridge pro-Palestine protest – NSW Police have moved to block a pro-Palestine protest on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, citing public safety concerns. The Palestine Action Group had planned to march with 10,000 people to raise awareness of the hunger crisis in Gaza. Acting Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna stated that the protest would create significant disruption and risk public safety. While negotiations for alternative routes are ongoing, the Palestine Action Group insisted the march will go ahead. Premier Chris Minns also raised concerns about insufficient notice given for the protest.

>>23402161 Video: Overseas criminal suspects in synagogue firebombing – Police are investigating the involvement of overseas criminals, including exiled tobacco kingpin Kazem 'Kaz' Hamad, in the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea. Australian Federal Police are working with Five Eyes partners to explore links to criminals offshore. Authorities arrested a 21-year-old Werribee man in connection with the attack. The firebombing is believed to be politically motivated, but no terrorism-related arrests or charges have been made yet. Police seized electronic devices during searches, and further arrests are expected.

>>23402220 Israel accuses Albanese of telling 'a lie' as a report warns famine is 'playing out' in Gaza – Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has accused Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of lying after he claimed Israel was withholding aid and causing starvation in Gaza. Sa'ar rejected the allegations, insisting Israel was not withholding aid. Meanwhile, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) issued a warning that famine is "playing out" in Gaza, with malnutrition and hunger-related deaths rising. The IPC is urging immediate action, as Gaza’s food insecurity and starvation are rapidly accelerating. Famine thresholds have been reached, but Israel maintains that aid is being delivered.

#42 - Part 6

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 6

>>23402293 Albanese resists ‘moral momentum’ call to join UK plans for recognising Palestine – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has resisted British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s call to recognise Palestine, stating that recognition will only occur after progress towards peace is made. Despite pressure from Australian Labor MP Ed Husic and unions, Albanese reiterated that the government is focused on the two-state solution, not making statements for political gain. A recent statement from 14 nations, including Australia, shows willingness to consider Palestinian statehood, but stops short of endorsing the UK’s position. Meanwhile, opposition foreign affairs spokesperson Michaelia Cash emphasized that recognition should follow peace negotiations.

>>23406871 Prime Minister Anthony Albanese waiting for right moment to recognise Palestinian state – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has indicated he will recognise a Palestinian state, but only when the timing aligns with achieving a peaceful resolution. "What we're looking at is the circumstances where recognition will advance the objective of the creation of two states," Albanese said. He emphasized that his goal has always been to support both Israel’s right to exist within secure borders and the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians for their own state. The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Australia’s support for a two-state solution while calling for a ceasefire and the exclusion of Hamas from Palestinian governance.

>>23406946 Trump says Palestinian recognition a threat to trade talks in warning to Australia – US President Donald Trump has warned that the recognition of Palestinian statehood could jeopardise trade negotiations, adding pressure on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. As Canada, France, and the UK advance plans to recognise Palestine, Albanese stated that Australia's position remains about "when, not if," but without rushing. Labor faces growing internal and external pressure to align with the global momentum for a two-state solution. Meanwhile, Trump warned that Canada's recognition would complicate trade talks, stating it would make a trade deal with Canada “very hard” .

>>23406966 Video: Adass Israel Synagogue arsonist identified as Giovanni Laulu in first court appearance – Giovanni Laulu, 21, has appeared in court charged with arson, recklessly endangering life, and vehicle theft following the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea in December 2024. Laulu, arrested during counter-terrorism raids across Melbourne, faces multiple charges related to the attack, which caused extensive damage to the $20 million synagogue. CCTV footage shows masked men entering the building with a red jerry can before setting the fire. Investigations continue, with Laulu remanded in custody. Authorities are also exploring possible links to overseas criminals.

>>23415263 Video: Harbour Bridge protest in limbo after police argue crowd crush threat – NSW Police has sought a Supreme Court prohibition order against Sunday’s pro-Palestine march across the Harbour Bridge, warning of “unprecedented” risks to public safety, including crowd crush and disruption to emergency access. The move followed a counter-protest threat by fringe pro-Israel group Never Again is Now, which was later withdrawn. Organisers say up to 100,000 protesters will attend, with activists arguing a sanctioned road closure would be safer. The protest has divided Premier Chris Minns’ party, with five Labor MPs joining crossbenchers in backing the march despite Minns’ opposition.

>>23415265 Video: Sydney Harbour Bridge to close for 4 hours, as cops prepare for Sunday traffic chaos – The NSW Supreme Court has authorised a pro-Palestine “March for Humanity” across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, prompting police to warn of major disruption as the bridge shuts from 11.30am to 4pm Sunday. Justice Belinda Rigg ruled safety could be maintained, citing Palestine Action Group’s track record, while organiser Josh Lees called the march an “urgent necessity” amid Gaza’s crisis. Police warned of “serious safety concerns” but pledged a strong presence. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry condemned the ruling, calling it reckless and divisive.

#42 - Part 7

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 7

>>23419269 100,000 march in Melbourne and Sydney to protest Israel’s bombardment of Gaza – More than 100,000 pro-Palestine demonstrators rallied on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Melbourne’s King Street Bridge, demanding sanctions on Israel and condemning Gaza’s starvation. Protesters displayed images of malnourished children, chanting “free Palestine,” while organiser Mohammad Sharab urged calm, calling the movement “peaceful” and denouncing claims of extremism. Victoria Police deployed heavy riot units but confirmed no arrests. Activists including Samantha Ratnam and Basil El Ghattis said Labor faces pressure over military ties, while Premier Jacinta Allan and Opposition Leader Brad Battin warned of consequences for unlawful disruption.

>>23419310 Video: Julian Assange joins pro-Palestine march across Sydney Harbour Bridge before police stop rally citing safety fears – Tens of thousands marched in Sydney despite rain, with Julian Assange, Bob Carr, Ed Husic, Meyne Wyatt, Craig Foster and Mehreen Faruqi among attendees. Police texted the crowd to halt the rally over safety concerns, turning protesters back after estimating attendance at 100,000, though organisers claimed up to 300,000. Carr and Husic renewed calls for sanctions on Benjamin Netanyahu and recognition of Palestinian statehood, while Faruqi praised protesters for “defying Chris Minns.” Police and government figures had earlier warned of crowd crush and major disruption.

>>23423343 How ‘serial pest’ Josh Lees won the Battle of the Bridge - and closed it down – Activist Josh Lees, long branded a “professional protester,” secured a NSW Supreme Court ruling allowing the Harbour Bridge march, despite police warnings of gridlock, ambulance delays and violent clashes. Justice Belinda Rigg accepted Lees’ testimony that urgency over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis justified authorisation, citing his two decades of activism and community backing. The judgment noted 147 Gazans had died from starvation and 40,000 infants were at imminent risk. Lees, hailed by Red Flag as victorious over “forces of injustice,” left court waving the Palestinian flag.

>>23423365 Sydney Harbour Bridge pro-Palestine protest marred by Ayatollah image and traffic chaos – An estimated 90,000 protesters, led by Julian Assange, marched across the Harbour Bridge in heavy rain, closing it for over five hours and causing major traffic disruption. The event was marred when a demonstrator displayed an image of Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei behind Assange and other high-profile figures. Police raised safety fears after crowding at the northern end but no major incident occurred. Justice Belinda Rigg authorised the march, citing Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis. Protesters and figures such as Bob Carr demanded recognition of Palestinian statehood.

>>23423380 Albanese seeks call with Netanyahu following Sydney, Melbourne protests – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is pursuing a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after 90,000 marched across the Harbour Bridge and 25,000 in Melbourne, pressing for recognition of Palestine. Albanese said he would use the call to advocate a two-state solution, while ruling out new sanctions beyond those already imposed. Ed Husic, Alison Byrnes and Tony Sheldon joined the protest, with Husic urging immediate recognition. Albanese praised the march as peaceful but said Australians “don’t want conflict brought here.” Critics warned of manipulation by extremist organisers.

>>23428058 PM speaks with Palestinian Authority amid mounting pressure to recognise statehood – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, pledging support for aid access, a ceasefire, hostage releases and a two-state solution, while agreeing to meet him at the UN General Assembly in September. Australia committed $20m in new Gaza aid as pressure grows for recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Penny Wong suggesting coordination with allies ahead of the UN. Albanese also seeks a call with Benjamin Netanyahu, while UN figures show 1300 Palestinians have died trying to access food since late May.

>>23435986 Australia could recognise Palestinian state within weeks, won’t wait for Trump — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is weighing whether to announce recognition of a Palestinian state before September’s UN General Assembly, aligning with France, the UK and Canada. Albanese stressed Australia is a “sovereign government” and would not seek US President Donald Trump’s approval, despite his warnings recognition could reward Hamas. Any Australian move would depend on Hamas leaving Gaza and reforms within the Palestinian Authority. Albanese discussed the issue with Mahmoud Abbas this week, while critics warned recognition risks diverging from US and Israeli policy.

#42 - Part 8

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 8

>>23444314 Video: Israeli security cabinet agrees to major escalation in Gaza - Israel has approved plans for its military to seize Gaza City as part of a broader ambition to take full control of the enclave, rejecting international calls for a ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the goal was to defeat Hamas and later hand Gaza to Arab forces, not the Palestinian Authority. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the move would “worsen the humanitarian catastrophe,” while Israel’s opposition leaders warned it risked the lives of remaining hostages. The war has already killed over 61,000 Palestinians, Gaza’s Health Ministry says.

>>23448169 Jewish leaders demand Albanese makes sure Palestinian Authority accepts Israel before recognition – Jewish leaders have urged Anthony Albanese to ensure the Palestinian Authority recognises Israel as a Jewish state, ends support for terrorism and halts anti-Semitic indoctrination before Australia considers Palestinian statehood. Labor ministers outlined a path for recognition, with Penny Wong signing a joint call for the PA to play a “central role” and Tony Burke noting precedent for recognition despite terrorist control in parts of territory. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned European recognition efforts undermined ceasefire talks, while Jewish organisations in Australia questioned Mahmoud Abbas’s credibility.

>>23452518 Historic decision:Albanese to recognise Palestinian state at UN in September– (Video) Anthony Albanese has announced Australia will formally recognise a Palestinian state at next month’s UN General Assembly, aligning with Britain, France and Canada. He said recognition followed commitments from Mahmoud Abbas that Hamas would have no role, while condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and settlement expansion. Israel’s ambassador Amir Maimon and Jewish leaders warned the move undermines security and peace talks, as Benjamin Netanyahu branded it “shameful.” Penny Wong confirmed she briefed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with Washington’s response likely to add strain to relations with Donald Trump’s administration.

>>23452542 Video: Netanyahu lashes ‘shameful’ Australia over Palestinian state – Benjamin Netanyahu has denounced Australia’s plan to recognise Palestinian statehood as “shameful,” insisting it will not bring peace but “the next war.” At a press conference, the Israeli Prime Minister defended Israel’s expanded offensive in Gaza, revealing cabinet approval to dismantle Hamas strongholds beyond Gaza City into central refugee camps. He rejected accusations of genocide and starvation, saying if Israel intended such actions “it would have taken exactly one afternoon.” Netanyahu argued Hamas already used Gaza as a “terror state” and warned Palestinian statehood in the West Bank would allow radicals and Iran to exploit it.

>>23452557 Australia will recognise a Palestinian state. But what does that actually mean? – Australia will join Britain, France and Canada in recognising a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September, a largely symbolic act that grants Palestine expanded diplomatic status but no immediate change on the ground. Palestine remains a non-member observer state with divided governance between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, disputed borders and extensive Israeli settlements. Anthony Albanese said recognition followed commitments from Mahmoud Abbas to exclude Hamas and pursue elections. Experts stressed UN membership remains unlikely due to a probable US veto, though recognition strengthens Palestine’s claim to self-determination.

>>23456893 Video: Australia's Albanese says Netanyahu 'in denial' over suffering in Gaza – Anthony Albanese has accused Benjamin Netanyahu of being “in denial” about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, citing a phone call in which the Israeli leader dismissed concerns over civilian suffering. The rebuke came a day after Albanese announced Australia will recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly, aligning with France, Britain and Canada. He said Netanyahu’s refusal to heed allies contributed to the decision, which is conditional on the Palestinian Authority excluding Hamas. Opposition leader Sussan Ley warned the move risks straining ties with Washington, as public sentiment in Australia shifts.

#42 - Part 9

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 9

>>23456896 Coalition vows to revoke Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state – Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has pledged a future Coalition government would overturn Anthony Albanese’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state at the UN, insisting recognition should only follow a peace process. She accused Labor of disrespecting the US and warned recognition was premature while Hamas holds hostages. Albanese said Netanyahu’s “denial” of Gaza’s humanitarian toll influenced his stance, describing Australia’s move as part of a coordinated global push with France, the UK and Canada. Michaelia Cash questioned the feasibility of recognising an entity with no borders or unified government, calling it meaningless.

>>23460988 Albanese faces backlash after Hamas praises PM’s ‘courage’ on Palestinian recognition – Hamas has hailed Anthony Albanese’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state as “political courage,” claiming its October 7 attacks helped spur Western governments, including Australia, to shift positions. Senior Hamas figure Sheikh Hassan Yousef praised Australia’s move and rejected conditions that the group disarm or be excluded from elections. Albanese dismissed the claim, insisting Hamas opposes two states and that recognition is tied to Palestinian Authority commitments. Israeli officials, Jewish leaders and the Coalition accused Labor of emboldening terrorists, while critics within Labor warned Hamas would exploit recognition to legitimise its violent tactics.

>>23460999 Albanese ‘detached from reality’ as Hamas praises recognition – Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, a former Australian citizen, has accused Anthony Albanese of being “detached from reality” after Hamas praised his decision to recognise Palestinian statehood. Haskel said recognition, tied by Albanese to commitments from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on reform and elections, would only empower Hamas, which polls suggest would win. She warned Australia had delivered a gift to terrorists and undermined security cooperation. The comments came as Australia joined 25 nations in condemning Israel for curbing aid to Gaza, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed Western recognition moves as symbolic politics.

>>23461005 ‘Not married to one solution’: Trump won’t criticise Albanese’s Palestine state call – The White House has declined to criticise Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state, with officials saying Donald Trump is “not married to any one solution” on the conflict. While reiterating he will not recognise Palestine himself, Trump’s team said he opposed rewarding Hamas but remained open-minded about paths to peace. It marked Washington’s first response since Canberra’s announcement, contrasting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s dismissal of such moves as “symbolic” and politically driven. Anthony Albanese tied recognition to commitments from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, including reform, elections and excluding Hamas.

>>23461010 Marco Rubio slams Australia’s ‘meaningless’ Palestine move – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state as “largely meaningless,” accusing Canberra and other Western governments of bowing to domestic anti-Israel sentiment. Rubio said recognition was symbolic and would not affect realities on the ground, stressing peace depends on removing terrorist groups from power in Palestinian areas. He reiterated that Israel’s war began after Hamas’s October 7 attacks and would continue while such groups govern. The rebuke highlights a widening rift, with Anthony Albanese unable to secure a meeting with Donald Trump or tariff relief amid tensions.

>>23470114 Video: Australia's commitment to recognise Palestine met with 'disappointment and disgust' by Trump administration – US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state was met with “disappointment and some disgust” in the Trump administration, calling the timing “terrible” and a “gift” to Hamas. He warned it endangered hostages and could push Israel towards West Bank annexation. Penny Wong said she had notified Secretary of State Marco Rubio in advance, but Huckabee said Israel expected more. He defended Israel’s war conduct, while claiming Donald Trump had done “more than anyone else” to stop starvation by creating a Gaza aid foundation.

#42 - Part 10

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 10

>>23470143 Video: Albanese plays down US ‘disgust’ over Palestine recognition – Anthony Albanese has sought to downplay US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee’s claim that Donald Trump and Marco Rubio reacted with “disgust” and “disappointment” at Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state. The Prime Minister said Huckabee represented US interests in Israel, not Australia, and stressed his role was to act for Australians, many of whom were horrified by both Hamas’s October 7 massacre and Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Albanese said recognition supports a two-state solution, following France, Canada and the UK. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the stance distracts from genuine peace talks with Washington.

>>23470225 Video: PM’s Palestine decision ‘could blow up’ White House talks, former White House adviser says – Former US National Security Council official Michael Green warned Anthony Albanese’s recognition of a Palestinian state is “unexploded ordnance” that could detonate when he meets Donald Trump. The comments followed US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee’s claim the Trump administration felt “disappointment and some disgust” at Australia’s move, though Penny Wong insists she warned Marco Rubio in advance. Albanese dismissed Huckabee’s criticism, saying his duty was to represent Australia’s interests. Green said figures such as Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby on AUKUS and Huckabee on Gaza were “taking initiative,” making summit planning harder to predict.

>>23470518 Video: More Hamas officials welcome Albanese’s recognition move, as PM warns against propaganda — Two senior Hamas figures have backed Australia’s decision to recognise Palestine, deepening criticism from the opposition that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has emboldened terrorists. Hamas media director Ismail Al-Thawabta said recognition “reflects a growing global awareness” and urged Australia to apply “diplomatic pressure to end the Israeli occupation.” Senior Hamas official Basem Naim added that recognition needed “teeth” or the conflict would remain in a “violent vicious circle.” Albanese warned Hamas spreads propaganda and said the Arab League had united in July to demand the group be disarmed and excluded from Gaza’s governance.

>>23476569 Far-right Israeli politician's visa cancelled ahead of speaking tour — The federal government has cancelled the visa of Simcha Rothman, a far-right Israeli MP from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, blocking his planned speaking events in Australia and banning him from entry for three years. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said, “If you are coming to Australia to spread a message of hate and division, we don’t want you here.” Rothman, who has advocated expelling Palestinians from Gaza, denounced the decision as “blatant anti-Semitism.” The cancellation comes a week after Australia said it would recognise a Palestinian state at the UN next month.

>>23482561 Israel bans Australian officials as diplomatic row intensifies — Israel has revoked visas for Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority and warned of tighter restrictions on official travel after Canberra blocked Israeli MP Simcha Rothman from visiting. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the Australian ambassador was notified and future visa applications will be “carefully examined,” citing Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state and refusal to admit Israeli figures including former minister Ayelet Shaked and Rothman. Tony Burke defended cancelling Rothman’s visa, saying Australia would not accept visitors spreading “hate and division.” The move escalates tensions after Australia sanctioned Religious Zionist leader Bezalel Smotrich in June.

>>23482656 Video: Israeli MP Simcha Rothman was blocked from Australia in part due to ‘inflammatory’ Hamas calls — Internal Home Affairs documents reveal Israeli MP Simcha Rothman was denied entry to Australia over fears his past statements, including calling Gazan children “enemies” and urging Hamas’s elimination through total conquest of Gaza, would inflame tensions and risk “the good order of the Australian community.” Officials warned his presence could embolden anti-Islamic sentiment. Penny Wong accused Israel of “isolating itself” after it revoked Australian visas in retaliation. Jewish leaders including Mark Leibler and the Executive Council of Australian Jewry urged both governments to end tit-for-tat measures to protect $2bn trade and security ties.

#42 - Part 11

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 11

>>23482715 Netanyahu blasts Albanese as ‘weak’ as diplomatic relations plummet — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has branded Anthony Albanese a “weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews” as tensions over visa cancellations plunged ties to historic lows. The row began when far-right Israeli MP Simcha Rothman was denied entry, prompting Israel to revoke visas of Australian diplomats in Ramallah. Penny Wong condemned the move as isolating Israel, while DFAT officials protested to Israel’s ambassador. Home Affairs documents cited Rothman’s past remarks, including describing Gazan children as “enemies,” as likely to inflame division. Jewish leaders warned trade and security ties worth $2bn are at risk.

>>23484714 Video: Jewish leaders hit out at Netanyahu as Albanese takes the high road in spat — Australia’s top Jewish community leaders have criticised Benjamin Netanyahu for calling Anthony Albanese “weak,” warning his remarks were “clumsy,” “provocative,” and fuelled antisemitism. Executive Council of Australian Jewry president Daniel Aghion wrote to Netanyahu urging “measured and seemly language befitting national leaders,” while praising Albanese for acting diplomatically. Zionist Federation president Jeremy Leibler also condemned Netanyahu’s tone, saying personal attacks were “unhelpful.” Albanese declined to escalate, saying he treats foreign leaders with respect. Meanwhile, Penny Wong and Tony Burke accused Israel of isolating itself after cancelling visas for Australian diplomats in retaliation over Simcha Rothman’s visa denial.

>>23489330 Pro-Palestinian protest over Brisbane's Story Bridge won't be allowed, Queensland court rules — A Brisbane court has blocked a planned pro-Palestinian protest march across the Story Bridge after police argued it posed “a real and significant risk of safety.” Organisers expected 7,000 people, citing Sydney’s Harbour Bridge rally that drew nearly 100,000. Magistrate Janelle Brassington acknowledged the cause was “serious” but ruled the route unsafe due to bridge repairs and safety concerns. Police warned they would make arrests if protesters defy the order and noted risks of crowd crush. An alternative Victoria Bridge route was offered but rejected. Organisers said they respected but disagreed with the ruling and were considering an appeal.

>>23494538 ‘Forever tarnished’: Benjamin Netanyahu steps up criticism of Anthony Albanese - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has escalated attacks on Anthony Albanese, declaring the Australian leader’s record is “forever tarnished” by recognising a Palestinian state. He said Hamas’s welcome of the move showed “you know something is wrong,” and accused Albanese of “weakness” in confronting “terrorist monsters.” Netanyahu announced a Pacific Islands tour by his deputy foreign minister to deepen ties with loyal supporters such as PNG, Fiji and Palau. He warned of a “tsunami” of anti-Semitic attacks in Australia and cited Churchill’s “slumber of democracies.” Albanese declined to retaliate publicly, while Health Minister Mark Butler dismissed the criticism as “frankly ridiculous.”

>>23508392 ‘Shameful’: Far-right Israeli MP speaks out on visa cancellation - Israeli MP Simcha Rothman has denied describing Gazan children as enemies, claiming his remarks were misconstrued, and labelled Australia’s cancellation of his visa “shameful.” Speaking at an online event organised by the conservative Australian Jewish Association, Rothman said views cited by Home Affairs — support for eliminating Hamas and opposing a Palestinian state — were “mainstream” in Israel. He urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to conquer Gaza City, reject hostage deals, and extend sovereignty over the West Bank, which he called “the homeland of the Jewish people.” Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke defended the cancellation, warning Rothman could spread division in Australia. The decision has intensified diplomatic tensions with Israel.

>>23508523 Video: Man charged over series of graffiti attacks on Melbourne synagogue - A 37-year-old South Yarra man has been charged with more than 20 offences over six graffiti attacks on the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation between March and August. Graffiti included “Iran Is Da Bomb” and “Free Palestine,” painted on the synagogue’s facade. Police allege he arrived alone on an e-scooter each time, and seized items linked to the vandalism at his home. He faces charges including six counts of criminal damage, offensive graffiti, unlicensed driving, and failing to stop for police. Rabbi Shlomo Nathanson welcomed the charges, saying justice will be served and expressing hope it deters future acts of “hateful, discriminatory lawlessness.”

#42 - Part 12

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 12

>>23508657 Video: Queensland Premier David Crisafulli condemns protester for flying Hamas’ flag during Brisbane Palestine rally - Police are investigating after a Hamas flag was flown at a 10,000-strong pro-Palestinian rally in Brisbane. Premier David Crisafulli called the act “horrendous” and said the protester must face “the full force of law.” Federal opposition spokesman Andrew Hastie and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said terrorist symbols have no place in Australia. Hava Mendelle of the Minority Impact Coalition said the act showed “support for radicalism.” Queensland Jewish Board president Jason Steinberg said the community was “sickened” by Hamas and jihadist flags. Organiser Remah Naji refused to condemn the flag, stressing the rally’s broader message.

>>23509774 ‘Extraordinary and dangerous acts’:Iran blamed for two antisemitic attacks on Australian soil– (Video) Australia has expelled Iran’s ambassador and shuttered its embassy in Tehran after ASIO confirmed Tehran directed arson attacks on Sydney’s Lewis’ Continental Kitchen and Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, flanked by ASIO chief Mike Burgess, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, condemned the “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil.” The government will now list Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation. Israel and Jewish groups praised the move, warning Iran’s “malign reach extends into western democracies, including here in Australia.”

>>23509797 Iran ambassador expelled from Australia, Anthony Albanese accuses nation of directing antisemitic attacks – For the first time since WWII, Australia has expelled a foreign ambassador after ASIO concluded Iran directed arson attacks on Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue and Sydney’s Lewis’ Continental Kitchen. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, flanked by AFP chief Reece Kershaw, ASIO director Mike Burgess and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, said Iran’s “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression” sought to terrify Jewish Australians and divide society. Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and three officials were given seven days to leave. Burgess said Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps used “a complex web of proxies,” including organised crime, to hide its role. Australia also suspended operations at its Tehran embassy.

>>23509808 Shock tactics: Why Albanese had to send the Iranians packing – "By booting out Sadeghi and three other Iranian officials, the federal government has skipped all the interim steps available to it and gone straight to the diplomatic equivalent of the nuclear option. This suggests two things. First, that ASIO boss Mike Burgess is absolutely certain of the intelligence to hand… Second, it underscores the fact that the government’s rhetoric about wanting to stamp out antisemitism and ensure social cohesion… is genuine. Today’s move was not weak… symbolically, the expulsion of Sadeghi is a big deal because of the message it sends to Iran, and other nations such as China and Russia… that they will be called out and publicly humiliated if caught." – James Massola, The Age

>>23509816 Labor is taking decisive action on Iran’s attacks, but the warnings were there for Anthony Albanese — ''"The evil actions of Ali Khamenei’s Islamic Republic of Iran in orchestrating the firebombings of the Adass Israel Synagogue and Lewis’ Continental Kitchen is the tip of the iceberg… Anthony Albanese has taken decisive action… The Iranian-backed attacks on Australian soil, which drove waves of copycat plots and anti-Semitic incidents, is a dramatic escalation that widens the net outside of espionage, foreign interference and cyber attacks… Yet their past comments and actions are not easily forgotten by Jewish-Australians… Iran, which funds and supplies Islamic terror groups including Hezbollah and Hamas… has always been an enemy of Australia… The interconnectedness between enemy states, organised crime gangs and street thugs poses a clear and present danger for Australia’s security."'’ — Geoff Chambers, The Australian

#42 - Part 13

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 13

>>23514551 Second man faces court for Adass Israel firebombing, a day after Iran exposed as behind the attacks — A 20-year-old Meadow Heights man, Ali Younes, has faced Melbourne Magistrates Court charged with arson, conduct endangering life and theft of a motor vehicle over the firebombing of the $20m Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea last December. Police allege Younes was one of three masked men who broke in and set the building alight while about 20 people were inside. He is also accused of stealing a blue Volkswagen Golf used in the attack and linked to other crimes. Co-accused Giovanni Laulu, 21, was charged last month. Neither man has entered a plea.

>>23514558 Australia 'primarily' responsible for investigation that uncovered Iran links to antisemitic attacks — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed ASIO was “primarily” responsible for uncovering Iran’s role in the firebombings of Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue and Sydney’s Lewis’ Continental Kitchen. He said the investigation traced perpetrators “right through to the funding” and identified individuals both offshore and onshore. Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the expulsions of its ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and three officials as an “assault on diplomacy,” linking them to domestic criticism of Israel. ASIO said Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps used “cut-outs” to direct the attacks. Operations at Australia’s Tehran embassy have been suspended, and the IRGC will be listed as a terrorist organisation.

>>23514579 Video: Israeli government claims credit for pushing Albanese to expel Iranian diplomats — Israel has claimed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “forthright intervention” shamed Australia into expelling Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi after ASIO linked Tehran to antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. Israeli spokesman David Mencer said Australia was now “taking the threats seriously,” while Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke dismissed the claim as “complete nonsense,” insisting the decision was based solely on ASIO’s findings. Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi echoed Netanyahu’s insult, branding Anthony Albanese a “weak politician,” while Tehran rejected responsibility and threatened reciprocal action, accusing Canberra of appeasing Israel and ignoring “genocide” in Gaza.

>>23518712 Video: Iranian ambassador conducts dramatic press conference before leaving Australia — Expelled Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi held a tense press conference in Sydney before departing Australia, denying Tehran’s role in antisemitic arson attacks despite ASIO’s findings. Flanked by men berating journalists as “stenographers” and a “disgrace,” Sadeghi dismissed the allegations as a “conspiracy” and a “misunderstanding” in relations. He insisted Iran was peaceful and claimed that Iran has a large Jewish community to counter criticism that Iran has long sponsored antisemitic attacks via proxy forces abroad. His departure comes after ASIO concluded Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps directed at least two attacks, prompting Canberra to expel Sadeghi, shut its Tehran embassy, and warn Australians against travel.

#42 - Part 14

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 1

>>23252468 Talisman Sabre 2025:Talisman Sabre 2025 is coming from 13 July - 04 August 2025– Australia will stage its biggest-ever Talisman Sabre exercise between 13 July and 4 August 2025, involving over 30,000 troops from 19 nations and, for the first time, operations in Papua New Guinea to mark its 50th independence anniversary. Activities will span Queensland, WA, NT, NSW, Christmas Island and PNG, with amphibious landings, airborne lodgements, multi-domain combat, and major logistics integration. Vice Admiral Justin Jones said it strengthens the US alliance and regional ties, while Brigadier Damian Hill highlighted unprecedented logistical demands and cooperation with traditional owners, communities and authorities to safely host the multinational training.

>>23252468 Talisman Sabre -Magic Sword- https://qalerts.pub/?q=Operation+Specialists - https://qalerts.pub/?q=magic

>>23252471 Q Post #2064 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G02wKufX3nw - Played by 'Operation Specialists' [pre-event] last night. Q - https://qanon.pub/#2064

>>23252473 Video: Magic Sword - In The Face Of Evil - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G02wKufX3nw - Jan 8, 2015

>>23252476 Q Post #2065 - >why did I get extreme goosebumps while listening to this?? - https://qanon.pub/#2065

>>23299504 USS America and other foreign battle ships head to town ahead of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 – The USS America, one of the US Navy’s largest amphibious assault ships, has arrived in Queensland ahead of Talisman Sabre 2025, the region’s largest multinational training exercise. More than 30,000 personnel from 23 nations will take part across Australia and Papua New Guinea. The vessel, carrying F-35B fighters, Ospreys and 3000 Marines, is joined by other ships including HMAS Farncomb and South Korea’s ROKS Marado and Wang Geon. This will be the 11th Talisman Sabre, marking its evolution from a bilateral drill into the southern hemisphere’s biggest war games.

>>23299531 Talisman Sabre Tweet: (Video) Countdown is on! Less than one week ‘til Talisman Sabre 2025 - #TS25 #TalismanSabre2025 #YourADF

>>23314748 Meet the Japanese marines getting ready to storm Australian beaches – Japan’s amphibious rapid deployment brigade (ARDB), created in 2018 amid tensions with China, has grown to 3000 troops and will deploy 450 marines, two destroyers and a tank landing ship for Talisman Sabre 2025. Commanding officer Maj Gen Toshikatsu Musha said working with Australian and US forces would “strengthen our mutual understanding and also strengthen interoperability.” Analysts said training now reflects “actual contingencies” such as Taiwan or the Korean Peninsula, with the ARDB focused on defending Japan’s Senkaku Islands, which China also claims. For the unit’s soldiers, Australia offers tougher seas and live-fire training.

>>23314818 9th Brigade, US Coast Guard join forces in 30,000 strong Talisman Sabre multi-domain warfighting – More than 30,000 personnel from 19 nations will join Talisman Sabre 2025, with one of the most striking contributions a 1400-strong task group made up mostly of reservists. Australia’s 9th Brigade and the US Coast Guard — which shipped six vessels to Darwin — will patrol communities, waterways and critical infrastructure. 9th Brigade commander Brigadier Tim Orders said reservists bring “real empathy with communities,” while US Cmdr Faith Gamboa called the deployment “a big thing for the US government.” It marks the first time a US Coast Guard Port Security unit has operated in the Indian Ocean.

>>23314896 U.S. Marines launch Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 in Australia’s north – U.S. Marines with the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 are taking part in Talisman Sabre 2025, executing airfield seizures, live-fire drills, advanced base building, cyber defence and expeditionary refuelling alongside the ADF and U.S. Army. Col. Jason Armas said, “Our Marines are seizing simulated key maritime terrain and enabling freedom of maneuver for allied forces … this exercise is Force Design 2030, in action, right now.” More than 35,000 personnel from 19 nations are involved, with the Marines central to manoeuvre, fires integration, logistics support and combined command and control.

>>23314896 Marine Rotational Force - Darwin Tweet: (Video) Talisman Sabre locked in - press [play] now. Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral military exercise between Australia and the United States advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific by strengthening relationships and interoperability among key allies and partners.

#42 - Part 15

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 2

>>23314941 Video: Talisman Sabre underway in Queensland - Talisman Sabre is underway in Brisbane as armed forces from several allied countries have arrived in Australia. Three US Navy ships have docked in Brisbane for routine maintenance, to resupply, and to give the more than 2,000 marines on board some rest and recovery ahead of the planned military drills. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Talisman Sabre and will have its largest participation so far, with more than 30,000 military personnel from 19 countries. The international training exercise will involve a month-long series of war games and live fire operations, aimed at strengthening allied military ties and improving interoperability. Events will be held in and around military bases in NSW, north and central Queensland, and Darwin, as well as in Papua New Guinea, hosted by their defence force. Talisman Sabre will begin next week following a ceremony at Sydney Harbour. - Sky News Australia

>>23314955 Video: Sydney Harbour will star in a military spectacle for Exercise Talisman Sabre - Sydney Harbour will star in a military spectacle for the beginning of Exercise Talisman Sabre, the biggest wargames Australia has ever hosted. - 7NEWS Australia

>>23318962 Video: LIVE | Talisman Sabre 2025 Kicks Off: US, Australia Lead Massive War Games - The opening ceremony of Talisman Sabre 2025 marked the start of the largest-ever iteration of the Australia-U.S. joint military exercise, now including 19 participating nations. The multinational war games are designed to strengthen interoperability, readiness, and regional security cooperation across land, sea, air, and cyber domains. Held in Queensland, Australia, the opening event featured military leaders and defense personnel from across the Indo-Pacific, delivering statements on the strategic importance of allied unity and rapid response capability in a shifting global security landscape. A joint press conference followed the ceremonial events, with remarks from representatives of the Australian Defence Force, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and high-ranking officials from countries including Japan, South Korea, France, the U.K., Indonesia, and more. The exercise spans several weeks and includes amphibious landings, live-fire drills, cyber-defense simulations, and complex combat operations, underscoring growing defense ties among democratic allies in the Indo-Pacific. - APT

>>23318968 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: Australia is prepared for Chinese spies off our coast - Australia is prepared for Chinese spies off our coast as troops take part in the biggest military exercises on home soil. Allies from around the world have been deployed for Talisman Sabre and military rivals are watching on. - 7NEWS Australia

>>23318968 Talisman Sabre -Magic Sword- https://qalerts.pub/?q=Operation+Specialists - https://qalerts.pub/?q=magic

>>23329049 Video: HIMARS rocket platform fired in Talisman Sabre wargame exercise – The biennial Talisman Sabre war games opened in Central Queensland with Australia’s first live-fire of the US-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). Brigadier Nick Wilson called it “a remarkable day,” marking the Army’s entry into long-range, multi-domain strike capability. About 35,000 personnel from 19 countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Canada, France and Germany, are taking part, with Vietnam and Malaysia attending as observers. Wilson said the drills demonstrate that “we are stronger together,” as the exercise expands beyond Australia’s borders for the first time into the Torres Strait and Papua New Guinea.

>>23329060 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: Largest-ever joint military exercise underway in Central Queensland - A massive field hospital, capable of treating dozens of people, is up and running in central Queensland. It's part of the largest ever joint military exercise currently underway. - 9 News Australia

>>23329076 Video: Australia hosts military drills with US and other nations, likely to draw Chinese surveillance – The largest-ever Talisman Sabre exercises are under way, involving 35,000 troops from 19 nations, with Malaysia and Vietnam attending as observers. Australia live-fired its newly acquired HIMARS rocket system for the first time at Shoalwater Bay in Queensland. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said Chinese surveillance ships had monitored every exercise since 2017 and were again expected: “It’d be very unusual for them not to observe it.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in China for talks with Xi Jinping, said the issue would not be raised, calling such monitoring “nothing unusual.”

#42 - Part 16

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 3

>>23329122 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: The largest military exercise in Australian history - The Australian Defence Forces and 19 other nations are conducting the largest military exercise ever staged in Australian waters, known as Talisman Sabre 2025. The exercise involves 40,000 troops and showcases Australia's newly acquired High Mars rocket launchers with a 500-kilometre range of fire. - 7NEWS Australia

>>23329161 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: As PM charms China, Australia hosts 19-nation war games with eyes on Beijing – As Anthony Albanese met Chinese leaders in Beijing, Australia launched its largest-ever Talisman Sabre, with 40,000 troops from 19 nations openly training with China “firmly pointed out” as the adversary. Vice Admiral Justin Jones said it was “19 friends, allies and partners wanting to operate together … for peace, stability, a free and open Indo-Pacific.” New capabilities on display included HIMARS rocket systems and the “Ghost Shark” submersible drone. Officials acknowledged that Australia’s forces on their own are dwarfed by China’s. Yet combined, the 19 participating nations match Beijing’s manpower and surpass its assets. Lt Gen Joel Vowell called the exercise “a deterrent mechanism” and reaffirmed the US–Australia alliance as “ironclad.”

>>23351668 Carrier USS George Washington Joins Talisman Sabre Drills off Australia – The USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group has joined Talisman Sabre 2025, the largest-ever iteration of the multilateral exercise involving 19 nations and 35,000 troops. Rear Admiral Eric Anduze said the drills rehearse “ally and partner integration” to increase interoperability and deterrence. Allied vessels include the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales, Australia’s HMAS Sydney, Canada’s HMCS Ville de Quebec, and Norway’s HNoMS Roald Amundsen. For the first time, F-35C fighters are participating. Brigadier Damian Hill said Australia’s vast geography tests partners’ ability to project force across the Indo-Pacific’s vast distances.

>>23351734 Aircraft Carriers USS George Washington, HMS Prince of Wales Team Up off Australia – USS George Washington and HMS Prince of Wales met in the Timor Sea for the first dual-carrier operations in Talisman Sabre history. The Royal Navy hailed the “powerful demonstration of naval power,” with Prince of Wales embarking 17 F-35Bs and George Washington deploying F-35Cs, marking the first F-35C participation in the exercise. Supporting vessels include USS Robert Smalls, USS Shoup, HMAS Sydney, HMS Dauntless, HMCS Ville de Québec, HNoMS Roald Amundsen, and RFA Tidespring. The UK group continues its Operation Highmast deployment, sailing to Japan after drills conclude July 27.

>>23351780 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: The top end operation with 150 planes - South East Queensland is taking centre stage in this year's Exercise Talisman Sabre. - 9 News Australia

>>23351790 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: Australia's armed forces test readiness in major military exercise - Australia's armed forces are participating in a major military exercise called Talisman Sabre, involving over 150 aircraft from 19 countries. The exercise is designed to test the readiness and capabilities of the Australian defence forces in the face of an increasingly assertive China. - 7NEWS Australia

>>23352196 Australian Army helicopter damaged in 'hard landing' during Talisman Sabre exercise in the NT – An Australian Army Tiger helicopter was damaged after a “hard landing” near Timber Creek during Talisman Sabre, though the two crew escaped unharmed. The 1st Aviation Regiment has paused flying operations pending an independent Defence Flight Safety Bureau investigation, but other rotary support will continue. Defence thanked NT Emergency Services and the US for their assistance. The biennial war games involve 30,000 personnel from 19 nations. The incident comes two years after a fatal Taipan crash at the same exercise, which led to the helicopter fleet being permanently grounded.

>>23352204 Tiger Helicopter goes down during 2025 Talisman Sabre operations – An Australian Army Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter sustained damage after a “hard landing” at Bradshaw Training Area, Timber Creek, on July 16, just hours before it was due to finish its role in Talisman Sabre. Defence confirmed the two crew were unharmed, though the incident was kept under wraps for almost 48 hours. An independent Defence Flight Safety Bureau investigation is underway, with the entire 1st Aviation Regiment grounded pending findings. The ADF plans to retire the troubled Tiger fleet later this year, replacing it with AH-64E Apache helicopters.

#42 - Part 17

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 4

>>23352220 Video: Talisman Sabre Exercise Includes New Space Domain - The Talisman Sabre Exercise is a lot bigger this year and for the first time there's a space operations team. That new space domain will also be opening up for new recruits. - 7NEWS Townsville

>>23357475 Talisman Sabre 2025: Marines rehearse remote airfield seizures during massive Indo-Pacific drills – U.S. Marines and Australian troops practiced seizing remote airstrips in the Outback as part of Talisman Sabre 2025, involving 35,000 personnel from 19 nations. Airstrips at Timber Creek, Nackeroo, and Cloncurry stood in for island bases in a future conflict, with Marines arriving by MV-22B Ospreys and KC-130Js. A Typhon system also fired an SM-6 missile from Bradshaw, the first live launch in the Western Pacific. Marines established command posts, refueling points, and air traffic control, encountering only “small sporadic fire teams” in the exercise scenario.

>>23357490 Video: Talisman Sabre 2025: Providing coastal protection far from home – U.S. Coast Guard Security Unit 307 joined Talisman Sabre 2025 in Darwin, integrating with the 2nd Australian Division to protect vital infrastructure. After a Welcome to Country and training with Australian troops, the Coast Guard began layered port defence drills alongside the 12th/40th Battalion, Royal Tasmania Regiment. “To be able to work alongside the Aussies is invaluable learning for us,” said Lt. Nicholas Haas. Lt. Doug Shephard added, “There’s always something to learn.” The joint effort focuses on securing the Port of Darwin through combined sea and shore defence.

>>23361943 Rocket launch demonstration off Jervis Bay shows military might as part of Talisman Sabre – Japanese Self-Defense Forces fired two advanced Type 12 anti-ship missiles in Jervis Bay during Talisman Sabre 2025, their most sophisticated demonstration yet, with missiles striking simultaneously after being fired with different trajectories. Exercise director Brigadier Damian Hill said over 1,500 Japanese personnel are participating, reflecting deepened ties since Japan first joined as an observer in 2017. The three-week drills involve 19 nations and 40,000 personnel, expanding to Christmas Island for the first time. Australia also live-fired HIMARS rockets, showcasing rapid modernisation, while Chinese surveillance ships monitored the exercises.

>>23388366 Inside Australia’s biggest war games, Exercise Talisman Sabre – Thousands of military personnel, including from the US Coast Guard, have converged on Darwin for the nation’s largest war games, Talisman Sabre 2025. This year’s exercise, involving Australian Defence Personnel and the US military, sees a bigger focus on “the enemy,” as concerns rise over threats to Australia. The training takes place in a fictitious country, “Belesia,” with both attack and defence teams. In this iteration, exercises stretch to Papua New Guinea and Christmas Island. The ADF continues to emphasize the peaceful nature of the training, despite China’s surveillance of the exercises.

>>23388424 Video: Australian Army's new Precision Strike Missile fired at NT's Mount Bundey during Exercise Talisman Sabre – The Australian Army has successfully test-fired its Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) for the first time at Mount Bundey Training Area in the Northern Territory. The missile, launched from High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), reached its target 300 kilometres away in just over four minutes. Developed for the United States Army, the missile provides Australia with enhanced deterrence capabilities. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy highlighted the importance of this advancement in strengthening the Indo-Pacific deterrence strategy. This launch took place during the joint military exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, which involves over 40,000 personnel.

#42 - Part 18

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 5

>>23388478 Defence chiefs meet in Darwin as allies wrap-up Talisman Sabre – As Exercise Talisman Sabre concludes its mainland component, Defence chiefs from 17 participating nations have met in Darwin to discuss the exercise’s outcomes. The largest Talisman Sabre since its inception in 2005, the exercise involved 43,000 military personnel, 32 ships, 297 aircraft, and 32 million kilograms of cargo moved across the country. Vice Admiral Justin Jones highlighted the objectives of the exercise, including the value of allies, testing Australia’s military posture, and rehearsing combined joint war fighting. Key participants included personnel from the United States, the UK, New Zealand, and Japan.

>>23388521 Information Operations:Talisman Sabre’s new advantage takes shape- Amid the backrooms of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, a significant first occurrence is highlighting the trust between the exercise partners. Twelve partner nations have joined to create the first-ever Multinational Information Operations Centre (MIOC). Created for the Talisman Sabre exercise series, the MIOC weaves together the complex relationships of national authorities needed to create a cohesive capability. Information Operations (IO) within the Indo-Pacific area of operation uses information-related capabilities and activities that layer effects while protecting friendly forces and operations. Ultimately, IO aims to gain a competitive edge by shaping the information environment and influencing perceptions and actions. With over 80 personnel from 12 nations working in the MIOC, a key achievement has been the integration of the many national perspectives. Canadian Army planning officer Major Kai Hesser said the MIOC demonstrated the determination of multiple nations to work together. “This allows us to form a cohesive and unified perspective, and effectively plan information operations,” Major Hesser said. “Within this one capability, we can address the opinions and concerns of our partners, and demonstrate to an international audience our strategic partnership and resolve.” Through military manoeuvre and unique specialised capabilities, the MIOC has the ability to project and deliver their multinational effects across vast distances. Integrated with agreed objectives, the MIOC can be proactive rather than reactive, enabling manoeuvrability in the information space, a domain that is in a constant state of evolution. The origins of IO predates the introduction of the written word. Inevitably, all military actions, whether implied or actual, have used information operations to deter military action or give the victor a winning advantage. In the 21st century, IO uses a diverse range of activities, including cyber, space, operational security, signature management, and electronic magnetic operations to create desired effects.

>>23388521 Talisman Sabre -Magic Sword- https://qalerts.pub/?q=Operation+Specialists - https://qalerts.pub/?q=magic

>>23392787 UK to China: Britain will be a strong military presence in the Indo-Pacific with our Australian allies – UK officials, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey, have committed Britain to upholding international laws in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing defence cooperation with Australia. At Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, the UK highlighted its military presence and support for the AUKUS partnership, sending its aircraft carrier to Australia for joint exercises. This move reinforces the UK’s pledge to support freedom, security, and prosperity in the region, despite growing concerns over Chinese aggression. Lammy and Healey stressed that these efforts are vital in countering global threats and maintaining peace.

>>23392811, >>23395092 An old friendship is ready for new era of security threats – "In today’s increasingly volatile world, with conflicts and aggressive autocracies on the rise, partnerships between like-minded democracies are vital for protecting our shared values and way of life. Australia and the UK enjoy a strong and growing trade and investment relationship, worth close to $50bn annually. … But it is defence that remains the bedrock of our relationship. Our AUKUS partnership with the United States is our most strategically significant defence agreement in generations, and last week we took decisive steps to fast-track delivery. … These exercises aren’t just symbolic. They strengthen regional stability and improve our forces’ ability to act together." – David Lammy and John Healey, The Australian

#42 - Part 19

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 6

>>23392847 Talisman Sabre Tweets: - We have reached the end of the Australian component of EXTS25 as activities now move to Papua New Guinea. This is the first time that a component of Exercise Talisman Sabre has been hosted outside of Australia and will conclude with a closing ceremony on 4 August. We thank all those who have participated to date and supported Talisman Sabre 25 and we look forward to seeing you all at Talisman Sabre 27. #ts25 #talismansabre #talismansabre25 #YourADF #StrongerTogether

>>23392867 Video: ADF | Talisman Sabre 2025 - Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 is being conducted across Australia from 13 July to 04 August. More than 40,000 military personnel from 19 nations will participate in Talisman Sabre 2025, primarily in Queensland but also in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales, and for the first time, offshore activities will be conducted in Papua New Guinea. Talisman Sabre is the largest Australia-US bilaterally planned, multilaterally conducted exercise and a key opportunity to work with likeminded partners from across the region and around the world. Canada, France, Fiji, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga the United Kingdom are all participating in Talisman Sabre 2025. Occurring every two years, Talisman Sabre reflects the closeness of our alliance and strength of our enduring military relationship with the United States and also our commitment to working with likeminded partners in the region. Now in its eleventh iteration, Talisman Sabre provides an opportunity to exercise our combined capabilities to conduct high-end, multi-domain warfare, to build and affirm our military-to-military ties and interoperability, and strengthen our strategic partnerships. - Defence Australia

>>23428135 Brigadier Ben McLennan hails Talisman Sabre a huge success for Townsville and ADF – Brigadier Ben McLennan declared Talisman Sabre 2025 “exceeded expectations,” praising Townsville’s role and the Australian Defence Force’s ability to coordinate with 19 partner nations. The exercise showcased new platforms, including the M182 Abrams tank deployed for the first time. McLennan described it as “a bonanza for us” and thanked the region for its support. Exercise director Brigadier Damian Hill highlighted expanded geography, record participation, and activities in Papua New Guinea coinciding with its 50th independence anniversary. The exercise formally closes on August 4.

>>23428147 Historic Talisman Sabre Exercise nears end with Personnel Recovery Drill – Talisman Sabre 2025 concludes on August 4 with its first-ever overseas component, featuring complex personnel recovery drills in Papua New Guinea. Forces from the PNG Defence Force, Australian Defence Force and US Armed Forces simulated a crashed aircraft response, deploying joint air, sea and land assets including a PNG Guardian-class Patrol Boat, a C27-J Spartan and the USS Miguel Keith. Exercise Director Brigadier Damian Hill said the trilateral drills strengthened regional ties, coinciding with PNG’s 50th independence anniversary and underscoring its growing defence interoperability.

>>23428160 Talisman Sabre ends in PNG with renewed calls for stronger defence ties – The 11th Talisman Sabre military exercise has concluded with Australia, the United States and Papua New Guinea emphasising unity in a tense Indo-Pacific. For the first time, drills were staged in Lae and Wewak, where joint forces carried out a complex search and rescue exercise. Vice Admiral Justin Jones said the exercise proved allies could “train together, plan together, and be ready” to defend shared security. With 19 nations participating and PNG marking its 50th Independence, calls have grown for deeper defence cooperation and future joint activities.

#42 - Part 20

Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - Part 7

>>23428182, >>23428186 Talisman Sabre Tweets: (Video) The closing ceremony of Talisman Sabre 2025 was held in Lae, Papua New Guinea, today. The celebrations included a quarter guard by the PNGDF, and a fly-over by a PAC-750. Officials from PNG, Australia and the United States all spoke of the significance of PNG hosting Talisman Sabre activities this year - the first time a component of the exercise has been conducted outside of Australia – and the close defence ties between the three nations. This ceremony marks the conclusion of Talisman Sabre 2025.

>>23428192 Video: Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - From fighter jets and surveillance aircraft to heavy lifters and logistics teams, Air Force brought the full force of its capability to Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. More than 5,500 flight hours - 2,000 sorties - Operations across five states and Papua New Guinea. Air Force worked side by side with 18 partner nations to train for high-end scenarios and test what it takes to operate as part of a joint and combined force. It takes an entire team - on the ground and in the air - to deliver Air Power. Talisman Sabre may be over for another year, however you’ll still see our people and equipment in the coming weeks in the sky and on the road as we make the trip home. - Royal Australian Air Force

>>23428208 Talisman Sabre Tweet: (Video) This year, Talisman Sabre hit some new milestones. Hear from Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Australian Defence Chief of Joint Operations on the successes of Talisman Sabre 25 - #TS25 #TalismanSabre25 #StrongerTogether #OurPeople

>>23432296 Russia blames Australia war games as it dumps nuclear pact — Russia’s Foreign Ministry declared it no longer considers itself bound by a self-imposed ban on deploying short and intermediate-range nuclear missiles, citing “threats” from US and allied actions. Moscow singled out Washington’s deployment of Typhon launchers to the Philippines and the use of the system in Australia during Talisman Sabre 2025, which also featured the first overseas deployment of the Dark Eagle hypersonic system. The ministry accused the US and partners of ensuring a permanent presence of such weapons, prompting Russia to respond. Dmitry Medvedev warned opponents to “expect further steps.”

>>23428208 Talisman Sabre -Magic Sword- https://qalerts.pub/?q=Operation+Specialists - https://qalerts.pub/?q=magic

#42 - Part 21

Australian Politics and Society - Part 1

>>23256501 Penny Wong to meet Quad counterparts in Washington – Foreign Minister Penny Wong will meet her Quad counterparts in Washington this week, calling the talks vital to confronting Indo-Pacific challenges. “This will be the second Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting within six months, reflecting the importance of our partnership,” she said, stressing the US is Australia’s “closest ally and principal strategic partner.” The summit comes amid tariffs on Australian exports, a Pentagon review of AUKUS, and US pressure to lift defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP. US officials have warned of an “imminent” threat from China, including possible action against Taiwan by 2027.

>>23260836 Penny Wong in Washington for key talks amid US alliance concerns – Foreign Minister Penny Wong has arrived in Washington for a Quad meeting with her counterparts from the US, India and Japan, calling it a chance to support a “peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.” The visit comes as Australia faces tariffs on exports to the US, a Pentagon review of AUKUS, and continued pressure to lift defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP. Wong reaffirmed the US is Australia’s “closest ally and principal strategic partner.” The Trump administration has taken a hard line on Beijing, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warning of an “imminent” threat.

>>23265081 ‘Vehicle for action’: Marco Rubio pushes for stronger critical mineral supply chain ahead of Quad meeting – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged the Quad to move beyond “ideas and concepts” and become a “vehicle for action,” highlighting secure critical mineral supply chains as a priority. Meeting with counterparts Penny Wong, Takeshi Iwaya and Subrahmanyan Jaishankar in Washington, Rubio said concrete steps were needed to address shared economic and security challenges. Wong stressed the partnership’s importance against “escalating competition,” while Iwaya and Jaishankar underscored the Indo-Pacific’s role as a global growth engine and the need to uphold a rules-based order.

>>23265089 Trump administration expresses regrets for ditching Albanese meeting – Penny Wong says the Trump administration expressed regret over cancelling Anthony Albanese’s planned G7 meeting with Donald Trump, after the president left to address the Israel-Iran conflict. In Washington, Wong met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for 45 minutes, where he affirmed AUKUS’s importance and did not repeat earlier demands for Australia to raise defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP. Wong said they discussed “the positive benefits of AUKUS” and cooperation on critical minerals. She dismissed claims Kevin Rudd was a barrier to a Trump meeting, which is yet to be rescheduled.

>>23265108 Clinton, Gillard to headline Women UNLIMITED Leadership Summit – Hillary Clinton and Julia Gillard will headline the Women UNLIMITED Leadership Summit, set for 29 September–1 October across six Australian capital cities. Billed as the largest women-in-leadership event of its kind, the summit will feature Clinton speaking in person in Sydney and Canberra on navigating global challenges, while Gillard will appear via hologram to share lessons from her leadership journey. The program covers impact, resilience, diversity, women’s health in the workplace, and career acceleration, with contributions from figures including journalist Leigh Sales. Organisers say the event will fuel momentum toward more inclusive, purpose-driven leadership.

>>23265116 Video: Kanye West officially banned from entering Australia – Rapper Kanye West, legally known as Ye, has been banned from entering Australia after releasing a song titled Heil Hitler. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed his tourist visa had been cancelled, saying officials determined Australia “doesn’t need” imported Nazism or anti-Semitism. West, who is married to Australian-born Bianca Censori, had previously praised Adolf Hitler in media appearances and faced repeated calls for a ban from Jewish community leaders. Burke said freedom of speech did not extend to foreign visitors promoting hatred. The decision prevents West accompanying Censori on visits to her Melbourne family.

>>23269751 ‘No effective treatment’: man dies after first case of rare bat virus confirmed – A man in his 50s from northern NSW has died after contracting Australian bat lyssavirus, marking the first confirmed case in the state and only the fourth nationally since 1996. NSW Health said he was bitten by a bat several months ago and later hospitalised in critical condition. Authorities warned there is “no effective treatment” once symptoms begin, which progress rapidly to paralysis and death. In 2024, 118 people required medical assessment after bat bites or scratches. Officials urged the public to avoid handling bats and to seek urgent treatment if bitten.

#42 - Part 22

Australian Politics and Society - Part 2

>>23278899 Crisafulli’s bid to bring Trump - and the Quad - to Queensland – Premier David Crisafulli has launched a push for Brisbane to host the Quad summit, arguing Queensland’s G20 experience and Olympic trajectory make it ideal. Speaking at an AmCham lunch, he said a smaller-scale gathering with Donald Trump, Narendra Modi and Shigeru Ishiba would deliver defence and investment opportunities, vowing to press the case in India and Japan. While he highlighted Brisbane firm Ferra Engineering’s F-35 parts production, protesters outside condemned Australia’s deepening military ties with the US and complicity in Gaza, warning of secretive deals and militarisation.

>>23279579 PNG woman Rosa Yakapus endured days of public torture. No one came to save her – Rosa Yakapus, in PNG’s Hela Province, was accused of sorcery in her estranged husband’s death and endured three days of brutal, public torture. Stripped naked, tied to a pole, and burned, she was assaulted with hot sticks and knives before being shot and thrown into a river. Villagers repeatedly called police, but officers lacked vehicles, fuel, and backup to intervene. Critics argue billions in Australian aid secure energy projects while women remain unprotected. Shared videos underline escalating sorcery-accusation violence and community paralysis. “The world is watching PNG. We need to do something,” said Sergeant Alice Arigo, urging cars, fuel, rations, and urgent arrests soon.

>>23279623 Opinion - Torture, burning, murder: just the tip of the iceberg in PNG - “The case of a young woman tortured in front of a group of men before being murdered in Papua New Guinea, which Amanda Hodge describes in her article, is significant not because it’s unusual but because it is all too common. Many, many more cases go unrecorded in any way. Bodies are silently buried, or disposed of in rivers, or thrown down pit toilets. Survivors flee their communities and become refugees, constantly looking over their shoulder, worried about what will happen when their new neighbours learn about their history. Most government officials in PNG now accept that this happens on a regular basis and at scale. I have been working in the space of what is now called sorcery accusation related violence in Papua New Guinea since 2013. This has been difficult work, but we have started to see some positive developments. Most government officials in PNG now accept that this happens on a regular basis and at scale. PNG has also passed a holistic national action plan to address sorcery accusation related violence, … And yet, the violence and the cases continue. The national action plan has been desperately underfunded. The response is overwhelmingly reactive rather than preventive.” - Miranda Forsyth, Director of the International Network Against Witchcraft Accusations and Ritual Attacks - The Australian.

>>23283156 Video: Anthony Albanese to champion 'Australian independence' within US alliance – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will deliver a speech honouring John Curtin, invoking his wartime leadership to argue Australia must assert sovereignty within its US alliance. He will stress Curtin is remembered for “speaking for Australia” and resisting US-UK pressure to divert troops to Burma. The speech comes amid Trump’s tariffs, AUKUS uncertainty and defence spending demands. Historian James Curran called it Albanese’s most significant speech, saying it highlights that “being in a close alliance does not mean you cannot stand up for Australian self-respect and self-regard,” a signal to both Washington and Australians.

>>23283166 Video: Why Albanese’s ‘Australian way’ speech will concern Washington – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used the John Curtin Oration to outline an “Australian way” foreign policy, stressing Canberra will pursue sovereign interests even when diverging from Washington. He drew on Curtin’s defiance of Churchill and Roosevelt in WWII, framing the US alliance as “a pillar” but “not the extent” of policy, while promoting regional engagement, multilateralism and the rules-based order. Critics in Washington viewed the speech negatively, with Hudson Institute’s John Lee warning it lacked matching defence spending and risked leaving Australia “more isolated and vulnerable,” while Arthur Sinodinos urged careful diplomacy to prevent misinterpretation.

#42 - Part 23

Australian Politics and Society - Part 3

>>23283172 Video: Anthony Albanese pays tribute to ‘father’ of Australia-US alliance – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered the John Curtin Oration in Sydney, marking 80 years since Curtin’s death, to praise the wartime leader as founder of the Australia-US alliance while highlighting Australia’s sovereign independence. He said Curtin’s defiance of Churchill and Roosevelt, who wanted troops sent to Burma, saved “hundreds if not thousands” of lives and showed Australia’s fate must be decided in its own region. Albanese called the alliance a “pillar” but “not the extent” of policy, stressing middle-power rights, Pacific leadership, and stabilising ties with China, amid Trump’s push for 3.5% GDP defence spending.

>>23283192 Albanese urged to reassure Trump after Curtin speech – Anthony Albanese’s John Curtin Research Centre address, praising independence in foreign policy, has sparked warnings it could be misread in Washington while AUKUS is under review. Former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos urged a diplomatic “charm offensive” to reassure the Trump administration the alliance remains strong, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the speech’s timing risked weakening ties. Ex-Home Affairs chief Mike Pezzullo argued Albanese overlooked Curtin’s pre-war push for defence preparedness and self-reliance, while analyst Michael Shoebridge criticised the speech as ill-timed before Albanese’s fourth meeting with Xi Jinping, noting Albanese has yet to meet Trump face-to-face.

>>23283343 Video: Reviving the Warrior Spirit: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on Service, Sacrifice & Strength - “This We Will Defend.” Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivers a powerful message on service, sacrifice, and the revival of the American warrior spirit under President Trump. - The White House

>>23288285 The Australia-first words that Sussan Ley says could diminish US relationship – Anthony Albanese used the John Curtin Research Centre oration to highlight Australia’s foreign policy independence, praising Curtin’s decision to prioritise national defence over US and UK demands during WWII. Albanese framed the alliance as “a product of Curtin’s leadership, not the extent of it,” under the banner of “progressive patriotism.” Opposition Leader Sussan Ley sharply criticised the timing, warning that with the Trump administration reviewing AUKUS and tariffs, Australia should “build our influence in Washington, not diminish it.” Ley argued many Australians would question whether such a speech was in the national interest given critical US decisions looming.

>>23288298 Washington will not be impressed by Anthony Albanese’s Curtin call … but Beijing will lap it up – “Anthony Albanese’s John Curtin oration was ‘astonishingly ahistorical’ and dangerously misleading. By misrepresenting Curtin’s legacy to suggest a lesson of distance from the US, Albanese risks weakening the alliance while flattering Beijing. Curtin placed Australian troops under US command and sought deeper imperial defence links, yet Albanese cherry-picks one dispute with Churchill as proof of independence. With defence spending stagnant, Albanese’s rhetoric is hollow and irresponsible, and this silly speech will do nothing to convince Washington there is a serious government in Canberra.” – Greg Sheridan, The Australian

>>23288425 Eight PNG men arrested over murder of ‘sorcery’ accused – Eight men in Papua New Guinea have been arrested for the torture and murder of Rosa Yakapus, accused of sorcery after her estranged husband’s suspected heart attack. Yakapus was stripped, tied to a pole over fire, tortured with hot implements and finally shot dead at a bridge, her body falling into a river. Police said suspects surrendered after community leaders intervened and face life sentences for torture, murder and illegal confinement. Prime Minister James Marape called the crime a “national shame”, while NGOs and Education Minister Lucas Dawa Dekena warned sorcery-violence is escalating and threatens PNG’s social fabric.

#42 - Part 24

Australian Politics and Society - Part 4

>>23288479 Eight suspects over sorcery torture and shooting in police custody – Eight men have been arrested in Hela Province for the torture and murder of Rosa Yakapus, accused of sorcery after her estranged husband’s death. Chief Superintendent Michael Welly confirmed the arrests, including the alleged shooter, following a manhunt supported by provincial and community leaders. Hela Governor Philip Undialu and Minister Manasseh Makiba launched the operation, appealing for peaceful surrenders. Welly said more suspects, including from Enga Province, are identified. Charges include murder, torture, and unlawful confinement, carrying life imprisonment. “Justice is achievable when leaders work on the ground with law enforcement,” Welly said.

>>23288479 Q Post #4207 - The Armor of God - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Q - https://qanon.pub/#4207

>>23293966 Video: Deadline looms for Trump's liberation day tariffs - Australian products bound for America may be stuck with tariffs. This comes after the Albanese government has indicated it would not offer extra incentives to the Trump administration. - 9 News Australia

>>23299361 Video: Copper, pharma tariffs are coming as Trump hardens trade stance – US President Donald Trump has ruled out further extensions to negotiate new trade deals beyond August 1, warning countries to accept bilateral agreements or face steep tariffs. The White House announced 50 per cent tariffs on copper imports, sending prices to record highs, while Trump flagged pharmaceutical tariffs could reach 200 per cent after a short grace period. China, which reached a temporary framework in June, has until August 12 to finalise a permanent deal. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said tariffs have already raised $100bn in 2025 and could reach $300bn by year’s end.

>>23299395 Video: Donald Trump flags tariffs of 200pc on pharmaceuticals, 50pc on copper – US President Donald Trump has warned pharmaceutical imports could face a 200 per cent tariff, with drug makers given up to 18 months to shift production to America. The move threatens Australia’s $2.2bn export industry, with $1.4bn worth bound for the US last year, more than 40 per cent of total pharmaceutical exports. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said a final decision would follow an inquiry due this month. Trump also announced copper would face a 50 per cent tariff by early August. Australia exported $55m of copper to the US last year, less than 1 per cent of its $6.7bn global sales.

>>23299419 PBS ‘not on the table’ in battle for pharmaceutical tariff exemption, despite lobbying – Donald Trump’s threat of tariffs up to 200 per cent on pharmaceuticals has raised fears for Australia’s $18bn Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which subsidises 930 medicines. The US pharmaceutical lobby has urged Trump to leverage trade talks, calling PBS pricing “damaging” and restrictive. Treasurer Jim Chalmers insisted the PBS was “not on the table”. Trump’s May 12 “Most Favoured Nation” executive order would bar US buyers from paying more than the lowest global price, pressuring drug firms to lift prices abroad or risk exclusion, a move that could deter them from selling in Australia.