/qnotables23/ - ===Q Notables 2023===

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20344843 (021000ZFEB24) Notable: White supremacist Jacob Hersant to involve nation’s top lawmakers in Nazi salute case - A white supremacist who was first to be charged with performing a Nazi salute in Victoria plans to drag the nation’s top lawmakers into his legal case. The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday heard neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant, 24, required an adjournment of his matter due to a related “constitutional argument”.

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>>130889

White supremacist Jacob Hersant to involve nation’s top lawmakers in Nazi salute case

Aneeka Simonis - February 2, 2024

A white supremacist who was first to be charged with performing a Nazi salute in Victoria plans to drag the nation’s top lawmakers into his legal case.

The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday heard neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant, 24, required an adjournment of his matter due to a related “constitutional argument”.

His lawyer, Sandra Gaunt, told the court her client intended to file notice of his argument with senior politicians, including Commonwealth Attorney General Mark Dreyfus and state Attorney General Jaclyn Symes.

The notice relates to section 78B of the Judiciary Act 1903 which “involves a matter arising under the Constitution or involving its interpretation”.

It states that it is the duty of the court not to proceed in the case until it is satisfied that notice of the matter has been given to the Commonwealth and state attorneys generals.

“They may seek to be an interested party,” Ms Gaunt told the court.

No further details of the constitutional argument were aired in court.

However at a previous hearing, Hersant told media outside court: “We should have free expression in this country. These laws are built on emotion and are anti-white”.

Hersant performed the Nazi salute in front of media outside the County Court in late October after he and Thomas Sewell, the self-proclaimed leader of the National Socialist Network, were sentenced over a violent clash with bushwalkers at Cathedral Range State Park in May 2021.

Both men pleaded guilty to violent disorder over the incident, in which three bushwalkers who filmed the men were terrorised.

Hersant was sentenced to three days’ prison time, already served, and ordered to perform 200 hours of community work.

Sewell was sentenced to one month and seven days’ imprisonment – time he also already served.

Afterwards, Hersant raised his hand in a salute, stating: “Heil Hitler”.

His gesture was made less than a week after Victoria’s Nazi salute laws came into effect.

In December, Hersant told media he was not remorseful for the action and continues to perform the gesture daily.

The matter will return to court on February 29.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-victoria/white-supremacist-jacob-hersant-to-use-nations-top-lawmakers-in-nazi-salute-case/news-story/572761b72ee7eb02dc34154efef0db4b

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20344860 (021010ZFEB24) Notable: Australian crime fighters to get better access to social media accounts - Australian law enforcement agencies tackling terrorism, child sex abuse and other transnational crimes will get sweeping access to electronic data held in the US by the likes of Microsoft and Meta under a landmark deal between the Albanese government and the Biden administration.

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>>130793

>>>/qresearch/20098451

Australian crime fighters to get better access to social media accounts

Farrah Tomazin - February 2, 2024

Washington: Australian law enforcement agencies tackling terrorism, child sex abuse and other transnational crimes will get sweeping access to electronic data held in the US by the likes of Microsoft and Meta under a landmark deal between the Albanese government and the Biden administration.

Amid ongoing tensions over the Israel-Hamas war, the federal government is also taking a closer look at America’s hate crime laws as it prepares its crackdown on religious discrimination in Australia.

“We have limited hate crime laws in Australia, but it’s another area that, as a government, we are interested in looking at,” Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus told this masthead during his visit to Washington.

“It’s a shared concern between us and the Biden administration to do more to deal with hatred in our communities, to push back against Islamophobia, and to push back against antisemitism wherever we see it.”

Dreyfus’ comments came after he met US Attorney-General Merrick Garland to sign off on an agreement they say will “transform and enhance” international cooperation between the two countries.

Under the deal, US and Australian authorities will be able to obtain more timely access to electronic data held by service providers in the partner nation, in order to prevent, detect and investigate serious crimes.

In Australia’s case, law enforcement agencies will get access to data from US-based companies such as Microsoft or Meta (formerly Facebook) – a process that could previously take months because it required both governments to approve requests.

The information sought could include much-needed files uploaded to a storage or backup service, emails and chat history, geolocation data, IP addresses and the identities of those sending messages.

Dreyfus said the agreement was “a boon for Australia”, which was only the second country after the UK that has been given such access to US-based data.

During a three-day visit in Washington, he was also scheduled to meet with FBI director Christopher Wray, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, and members of Congress such as Republican Senator Lindsey Graham (a ranking member of the powerful judiciary committee) and Congressman Mike Turner (who sits on the armed services committee).

The trip comes as both countries grapple with escalating tensions due to the Israel-Hamas war, including a rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia, and growing fears of violent extremism and hate crimes.

In Congress recently, Wray warned that hate crimes had skyrocketed across the US, and that the bulk of the cases targeted Jews.

“We’ve been opening I think 60 per cent more hate crimes investigations post-October 7 [when Hamas launched its attack on Israel] than compared to the comparable period pre-October 7,” the FBI director said during testimony before the Senate judiciary committee in December.

In Australia, the debate over hate speech targeted at faith-based communities will reignite again in the coming months as the Albanese government prepares to unveil a new religious discrimination bill.

Dreyfus confirmed that Labor would include new measures to protect people from hate speech and vilification based on their faith. There will also be amendments to the Sex Discrimination Act, which currently allows schools to discriminate on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity.

“We have committed to removing the possibility of discrimination against staff in religious schools on any basis, removing the possibility of banning discrimination against students in religious schools for any reason, but at the same time, protecting the right of religious institutions to preference people of their faith in the hiring process,” he said.

The attorney-general also noted that during his visit, US authorities had expressed interest in Australia’s foreign interference laws, which ban covert interference in domestic politics and criminalise industrial espionage for a foreign country.

Last year, Melbourne businessman Di Sanh Duong, 68, became the first person to be charged under those laws.

Prosecutors argued at trial that Duong, who pleaded not guilty, had planned to gain political influence with the former federal education minister Alan Tudge on behalf of the Chinese Communist party (CCP) using a $37,450 hospital donation.

“I can’t comment too much on that, because that person is awaiting sentencing, but there’s interest here in the United States in those laws and there’s interest in what we’re doing to counter foreign influence,” Dreyfus said.

https://www.theage.com.au/world/north-america/australia-to-get-better-access-to-social-media-accounts-to-fight-crime-under-us-deal-20240202-p5f1w7.html

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20365452 (060908ZFEB24) Notable: How Donald Trump’s election victory in November could shatter Australia-US relations - "Australian ministers, public servants and diplomats are quietly assessing the implications of a Donald Trump presidential election victory in November. Trump’s single presidential term was a disaster for the US but also for traditional alliance partners and the standing of the great republic around the world. Trump did not and does not have a coherent foreign policy, was irrational and unpredictable, prone to snap judgments and policy reversals. Even though I regard a Trump victory over Biden as unlikely, it cannot be ruled out. It makes sense for Australian government officials to prepare for this worst-case scenario." - Troy Bramston - theaustralian.com.au

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>>130802

How Donald Trump’s election victory in November could shatter Australia-US relations

TROY BRAMSTON - FEBRUARY 6, 2024

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Australian ministers, public servants and diplomats are quietly assessing the implications of a Donald Trump presidential election victory in November.

While Trump’s poll lead over Joe Biden in battleground states may not last, his return to the US presidency cannot be ruled out, and it has officials deeply concerned about what it would mean for the bilateral relationship.

Trump’s single presidential term was a disaster for the US but also for traditional alliance partners and the standing of the great republic around the world. Trump did not and does not have a coherent foreign policy, was irrational and unpredictable, prone to snap judgments and policy reversals.

The future of the trilateral nuclear defence pact, AUKUS, is far from guaranteed despite what officials say. This is a Biden administration policy developed in partnership with Australia and the UK. Trump had no role in it and therefore has no fidelity to it. Some congressional Republicans remain lukewarm at best.

It is not certain Trump would stick with a US promise to sell to Australia Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines, share technology and personnel, and design and construct a new submarine for Australia. While the US congress passed enabling provisions for AUKUS, Trump could seek to terminate the deal.

Australian diplomats are working overtime to develop relationships with congressional Republicans and those close to Trump in the hope they can influence his thinking. In reality, Republicans in congress and those in the MAGA wing matter little as they take their cues from Trump, not the other way round.

The Albanese government is worried not only about AUKUS but the future of ANZUS. With his “America First” mantra, Trump showed no respect for longstanding alliances. He withdrew from the Paris climate accords and the Trans-Pacific Partnership, cosied up to dictators and autocrats, and weakened US prestige around the world.

If he returns to power, Trump wants to end US support for NATO, which requires congressional backing. He told EU officials the US would never defend NATO countries if under attack. MAGA Republicans want to end US military support for Ukraine, while Trump says he would force Volodymyr Zelensky to “make a deal” with Vladimir Putin’s Russia. This means ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia.

In our region, longstanding defence partners South Korea and Japan are also reportedly concerned about a Trump presidency, given he has questioned continued US security and defence guarantees. Trump repeatedly praises Xi Jinping and, unlike Biden, has publicly doubted whether he would defend Taiwan if China sought to reclaim it by force.

In his first term, Trump wanted to impose tariffs on Australian exports and refused to honour a refugee deal reached with Barack Obama. Some clever diplomatic work by Malcolm Turnbull and ambassador Joe Hockey changed his mind. But there is unlikely to be any carve-outs for Australia next time because Trump is friends with Greg Norman.

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20371174 (070803ZFEB24) Notable: Video: Nova Peris says Aboriginal flag ‘misappropriated’ by Palestine protesters - Former Labor senator Nova Peris has launched a campaign to reclaim the Aboriginal flag from the war in Gaza, arguing that Indigenous symbols and chants have been misappropriated at pro-Palestine rallies. Peris, who led the campaign to free the Aboriginal flag from copyright restrictions, said she was worried that Indigenous activists could be seen to be turning a blind eye to antisemitism.

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>>130793

Nova Peris says Aboriginal flag ‘misappropriated’ by Palestine protesters

Paul Sakkal - February 7, 2024

Former Labor senator Nova Peris has launched a campaign to reclaim the Aboriginal flag from the war in Gaza, arguing that Indigenous symbols and chants have been misappropriated at pro-Palestine rallies.

Peris, who led the campaign to free the Aboriginal flag from copyright restrictions, said she was worried that Indigenous activists could be seen to be turning a blind eye to antisemitism.

Her remarks represent a new flashpoint in the sensitive debate over the war in Gaza that has opened up rifts across sport, politics, media and within progressive movements in the months since Hamas’ terror attack and Israel’s military response that has provoked international condemnation.

Peris, the first Aboriginal Olympic gold medallist and first Indigenous woman elected to federal parliament, is being backed by reconciliation leader Sean Gordon and Liberal MP Julian Leeser in disputing the argument that Israeli Jews are a settler-colonial force similar to British settlers in Australia.

In a social media video to be boosted by paid advertisements and influencers, Peris says Jewish Australians have been “the most committed” supporters of reconciliation.

“In recent times we’ve heard a lot in our national discourse in Australia about truth-telling, and it has mostly been in the context of my own people,” she states in the clip, which is being backed by grassroots fundraising.

Funding for the campaign has been provided by Peris as well as Jewish, non-Jewish and Indigenous supporters, rather than organisations.

“I want to reciprocate by helping overturn a similar lie which is now being told against the Jewish people: that they have no connection to the land of Israel; that they are ‘settler-colonialists’.”

“I’m saddened to see our sacred Aboriginal flag, a flag which I fought so hard to be returned to the Aboriginal community, be misappropriated by Palestinian, anti-Israel and anti-Jewish groups in Australia.”

“Who gave free, outright, prior and informed consent to use our flag for your cause? How can you be allowed to shout out ‘F the Jews’ while burning flags on the steps of the Sydney Opera House? How can we not call this out and stamp this out?”

Peris said it had become “trendy” to support the Palestinian cause but questioned the historical knowledge of some activists, some of whom she said relied too heavily on information gleaned from platforms such as TikTok.

Her views were rejected by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe, who led this year’s January 26 “Invasion Day” rallies which were this year heavily focused on Gaza.

“It’s not up to one individual to decide what we do with our flag – it’s up to the people. The people have spoken,” Thorpe said.

Indigenous professor Chelsea Watego, a Mununjali and South Sea Island woman, said solidarity between the movements was not a new phenomenon.

“I would highly recommend that those critiquing Blackfulla-Palestinian solidarities engage with the intellectual work of mob who have a most intimate and sophisticated understanding of settler colonialism,” she said.

Indigenous academic Marcia Langton last year said in an opinion piece in The Australian that it was false to say most Indigenous Australians felt solidarity with Palestinians, adding “most of us are aware of the complexity and that there is very little comparable in our respective situations, other than our humanity”.

Leeser, the Liberal MP who quit Peter Dutton’s front bench to campaign in favour of the Voice, said he disagreed with Peris on many issues but applauded her for taking a stand on “one of the moral issues of our time”.

“I applaud Nova Peris, as well as Marcia Langton, Sean Gordon and Warren Mundine for standing with Jewish Australians during a time when antisemitism is on the rise,” he said.

Peris, explaining her decision to advocate on the issue, said she had become increasingly uncomfortable with the anti-Israel movement in Australia since protestors chanted “f-ck the Jews” outside the Opera House two days after the October 7 terror attack that killed 1200 people.

An estimated 27,000 people in Gaza have died during Israel’s retaliatory war.

https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/nova-peris-says-aboriginal-flag-misappropriated-by-palestine-protesters-20240206-p5f2qr.html

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3BcO9Nhu9G/

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3CcSnFo2st/

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20371195 (070814ZFEB24) Notable: Productivity Commission pushes for state Indigenous powers and Aboriginal watchdog - Governments across the country should relinquish powers on Aboriginal affairs policy to Indigenous communities and legislate watchdogs with more authority than the defeated voice would have had, to save failing efforts to close the gap, the Productivity Commission has declared.

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>>130814

Productivity Commission pushes for state Indigenous powers and Aboriginal watchdog

PAIGE TAYLOR and SARAH ISON - FEBRUARY 7, 2024

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Governments across the country should relinquish powers on ­Aboriginal affairs policy to ­Indigenous communities and legislate watchdogs with more authority than the defeated voice would have had, to save failing ­efforts to close the gap, the Productivity Commission has ­declared.

Less than four months since 60 per cent of voters said no to an Indigenous advisory body in the Constitution, the commission accused governments of not listening to Indigenous communities despite signing up to do so in the Closing the Gap agreement and said watchdogs with the ability to “punish” them were necessary.

Its long-awaited final review of the Closing the Gap agreement signed by all governments four years ago states some powers need to be relinquished to Aboriginal community organisations in order to arrest government failures in Indigenous health, education and safety through the current state-federal deal.

“The gap is not a natural phenomenon; it is a direct result of the ways in which governments have used their power over many decades,” the report states.

“We have observed small tweaks or additional initiatives, or even layers of initiatives, as attempts to give effect to the ­(Closing the Gap) agreement. However, real change does not mean multiplying or renaming business-as-usual actions.

“Change can be confronting and difficult. But without fundamental change, the agreement will fail and the gap will remain.”

The commission’s radical blueprint, revealed on Wednesday, comes a day after Anthony Albanese and Linda Burney were accused in parliament by both the left and the right of failing to have an alternative to the defeated ­Indigenous voice to parliament.

The Prime Minister on Tuesday would not say whether he ­intended to implement the ­remaining two elements of the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart now that the voice – the first element – had failed.

“What we’re committed to is what we said during the referendum,” Mr Albanese said. “What the voice to parliament was about was making a practical difference on housing, on health, in education, in all of those measures.

“We’re looking at ways in which we can advance those. We’re doing work particularly on employment, making sure that real jobs are created with real training and real skills to lift up opportunity for First Nations people. And we’ll be having more to say when we respond to the Closing the Gap statement, which we’ll be doing in coming weeks.”

When pushed on his plans for a Makarrata commission, for which the government had set aside $5.8m, Mr Albanese said: “I’ve just answered the question.”

The voice was the first of three elements of the landmark Uluru Statement from the Heart, which the Albanese government fully supported when it came to power in 2022. However, in the wake of the referendum defeat, Mr Albanese and Ms Burney have refused to make treaty or truth-telling as priorities for 2024.

The Productivity Commission says governments must fundamentally change the way they operate, share decision making with Indigenous communities rather than just say they do.

“(It) is about power sharing, and this requires more than consultation and partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” it says.

“It requires governments to relinquish some control over decisions and to trust that in doing so, they are enabling better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

The report says power sharing would include amending the agreement to clarify the purpose of making decisions jointly with Indigenous communities. It would mean governments treating Indigenous community-­controlled organisations such as Aboriginal medical services as “essential partners in program and service design and delivery, not simply as funding recipients”.

It would require regular meetings between ministers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak bodies, the report states, and governments adequately resourcing the implementation of the agreement.

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20371298 (070850ZFEB24) Notable: While drama continues to develop at home, PNG prime minister touches down in Australia for historic speech - Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape has arrived in Canberra ahead of a historic address at Parliament House, but a political storm is continuing to brew at home in Port Moresby.

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>>130876

>>>/qresearch/20328464

While drama continues to develop at home, PNG prime minister touches down in Australia for historic speech

Tim Swanston and Stephen Dziedzic - 7 February 2024

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Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape has arrived in Canberra ahead of a historic address at Parliament House, but a political storm is continuing to brew at home in Port Moresby.

Mr Marape's visit comes as China continues its efforts to expand security ties with Pacific nations, with PNG's leaders moving to reassure Australia it will not press ahead with any new policing agreements with Beijing.

On Thursday, Mr Marape will become the first Pacific Island leader to deliver a speech to federal parliament, where he's expected to extol bilateral ties as PNG approaches the 50th anniversary of its independence from Australia.

But the prime minister is facing a looming motion of no confidence in his leadership, which could come as early as next week.

PNG is still reeling after deadly riots in January in Port Moresby claimed at least 15 lives, with devastating losses for businesses after widespread looting and arson.

As the violence spilled out across the country, people were killed in other provincial centres.

Mr Marape has indicated that he'll largely use the address to celebrate the relationship and thank Australia for granting PNG its independence 49 years ago.

"There is no greater moment than this for me to go down to Australia and thank them, we were birthed from the hands of Australia as a nation," Mr Marape said.

"Papua New Guineans must not take our sovereignty for granted, it could have been a different independence."

"Our flag was hoisted up and the Australian flag was lowered, not torn down."

Mr Marape and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are also expected to discuss Papua New Guinea's internal security and broader defence and policing ties in the wake of the deadly unrest last month.

The prime minister was last in Australia in December to sign a Bilateral Security Agreement which will see Australia give PNG $200m to help support its internal security needs.

The funding is expected to be used to build up PNG's police and training, as well as expand and improve PNG's judiciary.

PNG's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko told the ABC that the Australian and PNG government departments were now working on implementing the pact.

"We need to see outcomes, it can't just be a signed paper that gathers dust on the shelf and is forgotten," he said.

On Tuesday Mr Tkatchenko met with his Australian counterpart Senator Penny Wong and International Development and Pacific Minister Pat Conroy.

In a press release, Mr Tkatchenko said the trio discussed "agreed announcements" for the trip, which spanned "law and justice, immigration, climate funding, critical infrastructure investments (and) scholarships".

He also said he "took the opportunity to reassure" them about the PNG government's commitment to Australia as a security partner, "dispelling the misinformation that PNG is entering into a security cooperation with the People's Republic of China".

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20371346 (070912ZFEB24) Notable: ABC cancels controversial drag queen story hour for kids after ‘hateful response’ - The ABC has backflipped on a controversial decision to organise a Drag Queen Story event for children as young as three in a Sydney suburban library after questions were raised about its “appropriateness” and “gender indoctrination”. The national broadcaster had made the call-out on social media for children aged from three to five years to attend a four-hour event at Rockdale Library, in Sydney’s south, on February 22 as part of Mardi Gras. However the ABC said it had a “hateful and offensive response” to its plans and it was “considering how we can safely host it”.

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ABC cancels controversial drag queen story hour for kids after ‘hateful response’

Controversial plans for the national broadcaster to host a drag queen story hour for children as young as three have been shelved.

Clarissa Bye - February 6, 2024

The ABC has backflipped on a controversial decision to organise a Drag Queen Story event for children as young as three in a Sydney suburban library after questions were raised about its “appropriateness” and “gender indoctrination”.

The national broadcaster had made the call-out on social media for children aged from three to five years to attend a four-hour event at Rockdale Library, in Sydney’s south, on February 22 as part of Mardi Gras.

However the ABC said it had a “hateful and offensive response” to its plans and it was “considering how we can safely host it”.

The head of the ABC Queer and Mardi Gras presenter Monique Schafter posted in a “Rainbow Families Community” Facebook group that: “The ABC is filming a drag story time event for the 2024 Mardi Gras broadcast and is looking for children between ages 3-5 years to take part. If you and your tiny humans are interested in taking part, please email.”

But after a backlash online, and questions raised by gender critical feminists, Christian groups, Liberal Senator Alex Antic and the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA), the ABC cancelled the plans.

Bayside Council Mayor Bill Saravinovski said he wasn’t aware of the booking until Monday night when he saw it discussed on social media.

“We had no involvement,” he said. “I found out when the ABC rang sometime this morning, it was their decision.”

The IPA’s Dr Bella d’Abrera said it showed how out-of-touch the broadcaster was with mainstream Australians and their values.

“The ABC’s insidious desire to push radical gender theory on Australian children, this time those under 5 years of age, is deeply concerning and highly inappropriate.”

Senator Alex Antic asked when was the last time the ABC put their energies into covering an event “sympathetic to the views of mainstream Australia”.

“Australians need to understand that the ABC is heavily geared towards the promotion of the minority views of left-wing political persuasions to the utter exclusion of everyday Australians”.

Australian Christian Voice’s Greg Bonder said “children aged 3-5 should not be subjected to LGBTIQA+ ideology”.

“It is morally wrong for the ABC to be promoting Drag Queen indoctrination,” he said.

Women’s Rights Network Australia co-founder Kit Kowalski said “many women shared the complaints that they sent through to the ABC after hearing about this event - their concerns were set out in even tones, requesting that the ABC listen to the community on this issue”.

“The ABC is going beyond it’s remit to reflect the national character by actively organising controversial events where males dressed in a sexualised caricature of women read books to children,” she said.

In response to questions about the event, the ABC issued a statement:

“The ABC condemns the hateful and offensive response we have received from some individuals in response to the callout for this event.

“The event will no longer be held at the Rockdale Library and the ABC is considering how we can safely host it.

“The ABC invited families from within the LGBTQIA+ community to participate in a Drag Queen Story Time event which would be filmed as part of our Mardi Gras coverage.

“These events are designed for families and are regularly held in public spaces.

“The ABC is the official host broadcaster for the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. As part of this partnership the ABC showcases the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community, aligning with its Charter obligation to reflect all Australians.”

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/abc-cancels-controversial-drag-queen-story-hour-for-kids-after-hateful-response/news-story/a89e56cb42fb77683de116dd8c0a9373

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20371367 (070926ZFEB24) Notable: 'Dead wrong so many times': Former Donald Trump advisor Steve Bannon hits out at Kevin Rudd over position on China - A former advisor to Donald Trump has taken aim at Australia's Ambassador to the United States Kevin Rudd over his position on China during an exclusive interview with Sky News. Steve Bannon served as a chief White House strategist under the Trump administration after the former US president's election win in 2016. Speaking to Sky News host Sharri Markson on Wednesday, Mr Bannon warned Mr Rudd's attempts to stabilise the strained Australia-China relations were dangerous. "Ambassador Rudd should know we got his number," Mr Bannon told Markson. "For people in the United States, folks in Australia should know, Rudd puts himself out as the expert in the world on China and the Chinese Communist Party. "I think he's been dead wrong so many times."

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>>130802

>>130922

>>130932

>>130933

'Dead wrong so many times': Former Donald Trump advisor Steve Bannon hits out at Kevin Rudd over position on China

One of Donald Trump's most senior former advisors, Steve Bannon, has hit out at Kevin Rudd, saying the US Ambassador has been "dead wrong so many times" on China despite portraying himself as an expert.

Adriana Mageros - February 7, 2024

A former advisor to Donald Trump has taken aim at Australia's Ambassador to the United States Kevin Rudd over his position on China during an exclusive interview with Sky News.

Steve Bannon served as a chief White House strategist under the Trump administration after the former US president's election win in 2016.

Speaking to Sky News host Sharri Markson on Wednesday, Mr Bannon warned Mr Rudd's attempts to stabilise the strained Australia-China relations were dangerous.

"Ambassador Rudd should know we got his number," Mr Bannon told Markson.

"For people in the United States, folks in Australia should know, Rudd puts himself out as the expert in the world on China and the Chinese Communist Party.

"I think he's been dead wrong so many times.

"He is trying to worm his way back into the good graces. He's been very critical of president Trump in the past."

Mr Bannon also touched on the AUKUS deal, the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United States and United Kingdom, claiming it was necessary due to China's coercive actions in the Pacific region.

"The Australian people wouldn't have to have a deal on fast-attack submarines in a tripartite relationship to make sure they were constantly patrolling the South China Sea in the Western Pacific if the Chinese Communist Party wasn't a very deadly existential threat to our freedoms and to our liberties," he said.

Mr Rudd was named Australia's Ambassador to the United States in late December 2022, and was officially appointed to the role in April last year.

Prior to his appointment, there was heightened speculation Mr Rudd would be handed the plum international posting by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese if Labor won the 2022 election.

Senior Labor figures including Mr Albanese had dismissed the reports, first published in The Australian, before Mr Rudd was later named to fill the role.

https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/dead-wrong-so-many-times-former-donald-trump-advisor-steve-bannon-hits-out-at-kevin-rudd-over-position-on-china/news-story/2f18c56decedf7a6ea3ef94881cd91fa

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20377086 (080821ZFEB24) Notable: Video: Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape urges Australia to not 'give up' on his country in historic parliament address - The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape has urged Australia to not "give up" on his country during an historic address to the federal parliament. On Thursday morning, Mr Marape became the first Pacific leader to address the joint sitting of both houses, with MPs and Senators packing into the lower house to listen. The prime minister dwelt heavily on the shared history between Australia and Papua New Guinea, paying tribute to prime minister Gough Whitlam who helped shepherd his country to independence almost 50 years ago. "It was from this parliament that many decisions were made that have helped and shaped what Papua New Guinea was before 1975, and what Papua New Guinea is after 1975," Mr Marape said. "This is why Papua New Guinea has a very special and very unique relationship with Australia. We are the only country Australia has birthed."

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>>130876

>>130950

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape urges Australia to not 'give up' on his country in historic parliament address

Stephen Dziedzic and Tim Swanston - 8 February 2024

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The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape has urged Australia to not "give up" on his country during an historic address to the federal parliament.

On Thursday morning, Mr Marape became the first Pacific leader to address the joint sitting of both houses, with MPs and Senators packing into the lower house to listen.

The prime minister dwelt heavily on the shared history between Australia and Papua New Guinea, paying tribute to prime minister Gough Whitlam who helped shepherd his country to independence almost 50 years ago.

"It was from this parliament that many decisions were made that have helped and shaped what Papua New Guinea was before 1975, and what Papua New Guinea is after 1975," Mr Marape said.

"This is why Papua New Guinea has a very special and very unique relationship with Australia. We are the only country Australia has birthed."

He acknowledged that Papua New Guinea continues to grapple with profound social and economic difficulties in the wake of riots that gripped the capital Port Moresby just last month, but declared that his government was intent on overhauling the public sector, police force and judiciary in order to improve stability.

"It is true our people need greater empowerment in many aspects of their life. But not all is bad. Not all is bad," he told the joint sitting.

"Nearly 50 years on, our democracy remains strong as ever …. we have not fallen to the barrel of the gun as many emerging nations."

Australia has extended multiple loans and grants to Papua New Guinea worth billions of dollars to help support its budget bottom line and develop its infrastructure, and last year the two nations struck a security pact which will see Canberra plough a further $200 million into developing PNG's police force and judiciary.

Mr Marape said PNG's leaders had to deal with a vast and inaccessible landscape, widespread illiteracy and a large and hugely diverse population.

"As I visit you today, I ask you — do not give up on Papua New Guinea," the prime minister said.

"We have always bounced back from our low moments and we will continue to grow, learning from every low moments and every high moments."

Mr Marape has repeatedly spoken about the critical need to expand PNG's economic base and cut its dependency on development assistance, and he struck a similar theme this morning.

"Papua New Guinea must not continue to be an aid grant receiving nation, a nation that is borrowing every year to survive," he told the joint sitting.

"We must become a strong country standing on our own two feet economically independent and strong so we too can help Australia maintain democracy, preserve peace and ensure stability in our part of planet Earth, in our Pacific."

The prime minister also drew a laugh when describing Australia and PNG as siblings which were joined at the hip.

"One is stuck with family forever … our two countries are stuck with each other. We have no choice but to get along."

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20383178 (090923ZFEB24) Notable: Leak, doxxing of almost 600 Jewish creatives ‘very distressing… with really serious consequences’ - Federal Labor MP Josh Burns has called the doxxing of hundreds of Jewish creatives in a private WhatsApp group “very distressing”, warning it could result in “really serious consequences”. On Thursday, high-profile pro-Palestine activists, including feminist author Clementine Ford, began sharing on social media a link to a spreadsheet that had leaked the names, occupations and social media profiles of almost 600 Jewish creatives purportedly from the WhatsApp group.

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>>130793

Leak, doxxing of almost 600 Jewish creatives ‘very distressing… with really serious consequences’

ALEXI DEMETRIADI - FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Federal Labor MP Josh Burns has called the doxxing of hundreds of Jewish creatives in a private WhatsApp group “very distressing”, warning it could result in “really serious consequences”.

On Thursday, high-profile pro-Palestine activists, including feminist author Clementine Ford, began sharing on social media a link to a spreadsheet that had leaked the names, occupations and social media profiles of almost 600 Jewish creatives purportedly from the WhatsApp group.

A second, new link to the document has since been removed by the administrators of the web page where it had been posted, citing a breach of privacy and harassment. It had included a spreadsheet with links to social media accounts and a separate file with a photo gallery of more than 100 Jewish people.

On Friday, Mr Burns slammed the move. “It’s very distressing, and it’s a trend where we’ve seen people using large social media platforms to try and target Jewish people in Australia,” the Macnamara MP said.

Mr Burns is Jewish and the inner-Melbourne seat of Macnamara has one of the highest Jewish populations in Australia.

He warned against targeting and vilifying Jewish people, making a distinction that it wasn’t permissible criticism, or targeting, of the Israeli government.

“You are targeting your fellow Australians, and all Australians should be able to live their lives respectfully and free from intimidation and free from the … really ugly vilification that was seen against Jewish community members,” the MP said.

“This has resulted in really serious consequences … where people have received death threats.”

The MP said he had been in touch with a family whose details were released and had gone into hiding. He said that the move had “shaken them (the people doxxed) to their very core”.

“They’re receiving an avalanche of threats, and they basically had to switch off their devices and not go into their places of work, and go into a place that wasn’t their usual home,” he said.

“They were completely shattered by this whole experience.”

Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin said he was “in shock… disbelief” that “people are once again drawing up lists of Jews”.

“It has been said to me by numerous community members that they feel relief that their parents or grandparents who survived the Holocaust are not alive to see this,” he said.

Mr Ryvchin called the move and tactics “Nazi-like”.

“Our community members who were motivated to speak up by the October 7 attacks and historic levels of local anti-Semitism should be proud and we stand with them in unity and solidarity,” he said.

“We call on our fellow Australians to resist the harassment and bullying, and when asked to sack or blacklist Australian Jews, to say not in our time and not in our country.”

Victorian Police said it was investigating the incident.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/leak-doxxing-of-almost-600-jewish-creatives-very-distressing-with-really-serious-consequences/news-story/fbed91acc920c3f08bb3b6d0359d3391

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20383187 (090927ZFEB24) Notable: ‘Ball in Australia’s court’: Fiji lobs torture issue back at ADF - Fiji’s top military chief has reportedly told Australian Defence Force chief Angus Campbell that “the ball is in Australia’s court” to decide whether a Fijian colonel keeps his job as deputy commander of the Australian 7th Brigade, following allegations that he was involved in torture and human rights abuses.

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>>130937

‘Ball in Australia’s court’: Fiji lobs torture issue back at ADF

STEPHEN RICE - FEBRUARY 8, 2024

Fiji’s top military chief has reportedly told Australian Defence Force chief Angus Campbell that “the ball is in Australia’s court” to decide whether a Fijian colonel keeps his job as deputy commander of the Australian 7th Brigade, following allegations that he was involved in torture and human rights abuses.

The move to shift responsibility for the appointment of Col­onel Penioni (Ben) Naliva follows a crisis meeting in Suva on Wednesday between Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australian high commissioner to Fiji Ewen McDonald over the growing scandal.

After earlier dismissing allegations against Colonel Naliva because they had not been officially reported to police, the Fijian government appears to have accepted the Australian govern­ment may be forced to withdraw or suspend the appointment.

Last week, The Australian revealed Colonel Naliva, a one-time right-hand man to former Fiji coup leader and prime minister Frank Bainimarama, was awarded the prestigious position in the 7th Brigade despite allegations he was involved in the violent beating of detainees, with former Fiji MP Sam Speight claiming the soldier tried to force an M16 rifle barrel into his anus during an interrogation.

The Albanese government has said it was aware of allegations against Colonel Naliva but relied on assurances from the Fiji government that he had “passed all the required police and national security checks”.

On Thursday, Defence Minister Richard Marles declined to answer questions about the appointment, including whether Colonel Naliva was still deputy commander of the 7th Brigade, a position that puts him second in charge of more than 3000 Australian troops based in Brisbane.

In recent days, the story has been front-page news in Fijian media, with at least one newspaper interviewing former detainees who first spoke to The Australian last week alleging torture and other abuse by Colonel Naliva during the 2006 military coup.

Human rights activist Pita Waqavonovono slammed Fiji Army commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai for rejecting the alle­gations of abuse and torture. “I would like to inform him that … I and many others were subjected to much humiliation, intimidation and torture.” he said.

“We did not dream up the sorrow of a mother or daughter who stood outside the Queen Elizabeth Barracks and watched their mother or son get beaten or scream for help.” Mr Waqa­vonovono called on the Australian government to seriously look into the claims.

Major General Kalouniwai has written to General Campbell to say the allegations against Col­onel Naliva had not been reported to authorities, according to the Fiji Sun.

“The ball is now in Australia’s court to decide whether Col­onel Naliva completes the two-year stint in Brisbane or returns home,” the newspaper said.

General Kalouniwai has declined multiple requests from The Australian to answer questions about the appointment.

Earlier this week, Fiji Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua dismissed the torture claims as unsupported allegations by individuals who hadn’t gone to “the proper authority”, telling Fiji newspapers he “wasn’t going to react to social media reports”.

On Thursday, in answer to a series of questions from The Australian, Mr Tikoduadua adopted a more conciliatory tone, acknowledging it could have been difficult and perhaps dangerous for individuals to have reported abuse allegations under the previous administration of coup leader Frank Bainimarama.

“It’s understandable that individuals may have faced challenges or concerns about coming forward with their claims, especially considering the political and social context at the time,” Mr Tikoduadua said. “The current administration is committed to ensuring that all individuals feel safe and supported in voicing their concerns and that their allegations are taken seriously and investigated appropriately.”

Mr Tikoduadua said it was essential to underscore the importance of due process to Colonel Naliva. “Any decision regarding the continuation, suspension, or withdrawal of his appointment will be guided by a thorough and impartial discussion into the allegations,” he said.

Independent senator Jacqui Lambie has demanded the Albanese government and General Campbell explain how an alleged foreign torturer was appointed to one of the Australian Army’s most senior commands.

On Thursday, Mr Marles declined to say whether the Australian government intended to change its procedures in vetting foreign military personnel for service in the Australian military.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/defence/ball-in-australias-court-fiji-lobs-torture-issue-back-at-adf/news-story/8a19fd69a15ce06325fe1b857c6df148

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20383200 (090933ZFEB24) Notable: Killer drone ‘in service this year’: Conroy - The Albanese government will introduce an armed drone into service this year, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy has revealed. Mr Conroy disclosed the existence of the secret drone program as he announced $400m more for the air force’s developmental Ghost Bat unmanned aircraft.

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Killer drone ‘in service this year’: Conroy

BEN PACKHAM - FEBRUARY 9, 2024

The Albanese government will introduce an armed drone into service this year, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy has revealed

Mr Conroy disclosed the existence of the secret drone program as he announced $400m more for the air force’s developmental Ghost Bat unmanned aircraft.

The funding will buy an extra three Ghost Bat prototypes, and lifts taxpayers’ investment in the platform to $858m.

The advanced “loyal wingman” drone is years away from being operational, but Mr Conroy said Defence was moving ahead with another undisclosed platform after testing drones last year for all three services.

“We are introducing into service an armed drone this year. I won’t go into details of the nature of that drone for security reasons,” he said.

“But I want to assure everyone in this country that we are spending lots of time working on drones.”

Mr Conroy said the new Ghost Bat prototypes would have an improved design over earlier prototypes.

“This funding boost will enable a focus on developing sensor and mission payloads, an integrated combat system and autonomous systems,” he said.

“But the majority of the funding will go into developing the unique Australian technology that allows the Ghost Bats to work together with each other and with crewed aircraft as one team to achieve their mission.

“This technology has the potential to turn a single fighter … into a fighting team with advanced sensors that are like hundreds of eyes in the sky.”

Two of Australia’s most respected military commanders warned the ADF needed to urgently get killer drones into service or Australian personal would be placed at risk.

Experts have also warned ADF personnel need counter-drone systems to keep them safe, but the army isn’t due to acquire such capabilities until 2030 at the earliest.

The Boeing Australia-designed MQ-28 Ghost Bat was first unveiled in 2019, and had its maiden flight in 2021. It was due to be introduced into service in 2024-25.

But Mr Conroy said the goal now was to have it ready for commercial production in two or three years time, after a capability demonstration next year.

Meanwhile, Mr Conroy backed Defence Minister Richard Marles’ extraordinary criticism of his department in parliament on Thursday, when he declared it had a “a long way to go” before it could claim to have a “culture of excellence”.

“We are striving to improve performance and we’ve made no secret of the fact that we need to be faster in our decision making, faster in our delivery,” he said.

“This is taxpayers’ money that we’re talking about. And it’s critical that we get the platforms that the Australian Defence Force needs in service on time and on budget and the Department of Defense and the ministers are united in that approach.”

Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie said Mr Marles was ultimately responsible for the fallout with his department, after failing to secure more funding for badly-needed new capabilities.

“Richard Marles himself in October of 2022, said that the buck stopped with him as the Minister for Defence,” he said.

“And it’s my belief as well that the speed of the boss is the speed of the team, and Richard Marles is low speed and high drag.”

Mr Hastie welcomed the additional support for the Ghost Bat program, but said the government needed to accelerate drone procurement across all three services.

“We need low cost drones as well, which are the sort of drones that are being used in Ukraine and elsewhere at the moment,” he said.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/defence/killer-drone-in-service-this-year-conroy/news-story/f97ba50f27173a4250ca4647fb31b169

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20387063 (100017ZFEB24) Notable: Victorian Labor: We're taking on Advance Australia - Victorian Labor Party telling lies and using tried and proven tactic of accusing the other side of what they are in fact doing.

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Victorian Labor Party telling lies and using tried and proven tactic of accusing the other side of what they are in fact doing.

Email.

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20389026 (100942ZFEB24) Notable: Leaders and business savage Australia’s rising anti-Semitism - Widespread anti-Semitic attacks on small, medium and large Jewish-linked firms have been savaged by prominent Australians and the peak business body as authorities assess evidence of offences after the October 7 atrocities. Government agencies and police face pressure to deal with a wave of attacks against Jewish businesses that also include a heavy focus on vulnerable smaller enterprises.

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>>130793

>>130956

Leaders and business savage Australia’s rising anti-Semitism

JOHN FERGUSON - FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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Widespread anti-Semitic attacks on small, medium and large Jewish-linked firms have been savaged by prominent Australians and the peak business body as authorities assess evidence of offences after the October 7 atrocities.

Government agencies and police face pressure to deal with a wave of attacks against Jewish businesses that also include a heavy focus on vulnerable smaller enterprises.

Businessman Joe Gersh, a former ABC director, said it was “unbelievable” that modern Australia had descended into overt anti-Semitism with potentially major impacts on smaller businesses, which are more vulnerable to campaigns compared with the relative stability of larger enterprises.

He said Hamas supporters had been blamed for much of the campaigning, which often involved harassment techniques including writing bad online reviews, negative social media posts, and direct intimidation by anti-Israel activists.

“Some of the stuff is absurd,” Mr Gersh said.

It was “extraordinarily unfair” and misconceived to target small businesses “just because they have a Jewish connection’’.

Anti-Semitism is rife on ­social media, thousands of businesses and people have been slapped with offensive stickers or faced vandalism, large companies such as shipping related to Israel have been targeted, as have suspected defence related firms.

One of the nation’s most ­respected lawyers, Allan Myers KC, said he abhorred the attacks on Jewish businesses and was concerned about what it meant for broader society.

“It’s simple, straightforward, old-fashioned anti-Semitism,” he said. “It’s detestable.’’

“It is detestable to try to hurt them. It’s a symptom of the way our society is developing.’’

Mr Myers said he was concerned Australia may be shifting away from a culture of not punishing people for their heritage or beliefs.

“We were not only free, prosperous but we were also tolerant,’’ he said.

Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler said the anti-Semitism threatened not only Jews but all Australians.

“We cannot afford to sit on our hands – everyone has a role to play, especially governments,’’ he said. “The so-called progressives ­attacking Jews and Jewish-owned businesses are raising the bar for racial hatred in this country. They’re doing loudly and proudly what the neo-Nazis who march down the main streets of Ballarat surely only wish they could do.

“With anti-Semitic propaganda being plastered against Jewish businesses, it’s a hop, skip and a jump before their windows are being smashed in.”

Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black said: “There is no place for intolerance in businesses or in our communities. Whether this emerges in the form of anti-Semitism or any other hatred, these ugly ideas are dangerous to our way of life.

“Put simply, it’s not who we are as Australians and it’s not who we should aspire to be.”

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20389031 (100955ZFEB24) Notable: ‘This isn’t advocacy’: Social posts on distant conflict tear at close community - It was a little over a week ago that Maggie May Moshe decided that Melbourne’s Thornbury no longer felt like a safe place for Jews. She was standing amid High Street’s rumbling clatter in tears, furiously scraping at anti-Israeli stickers someone had plastered on the windows of the gift shop she’d owned and run with her husband Joshua for the past seven years. A passing young woman stopped to watch what she was doing. “You should leave them up,” the woman said. “Unless you support genocide, you shouldn’t take them down.”

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>>130793

>>130956

‘This isn’t advocacy’: Social posts on distant conflict tear at close community

Chip Le Grand - FEBRUARY 10, 2024

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It was a little over a week ago that Maggie May Moshe decided that Melbourne’s Thornbury no longer felt like a safe place for Jews.

She was standing amid High Street’s rumbling clatter in tears, furiously scraping at anti-Israeli stickers someone had plastered on the windows of the gift shop she’d owned and run with her husband Joshua for the past seven years.

A passing young woman stopped to watch what she was doing. “You should leave them up,” the woman said. “Unless you support genocide, you shouldn’t take them down.”

Maggie May is identifiably Jewish. Although she is still converting to her adopted faith, she wears a style of headscarf that denotes an orthodox, married woman. And here she was, on the main street of an uber-hip, inner-north suburb of Melbourne, being told to leave in place stickers that carry a Ghostbuster-style cross through the Star of David.

Otherwise, she would be condoning a horrific war in Gaza, which, according to the latest estimates, has killed nearly 28,000 people.

Before they arrived at the shop that morning, Maggie May and Joshua Moshe, a professional musician, already felt as though the ground was crumbling beneath their feet. Their personal and store Instagram feeds were inundated with abusive posts. Josh had been dumped from the band he’d played with for the best part of a decade. On the mobile phone attached to the store, an unidentified woman had left the following voice mail: “You racist motherf-ckers better keep watching your motherf-ckin’ back y’all. All us... know where you are now motherf-cker.”

The same caller also left an SMS: an image of their four-year-old son.

The Moshes have decided to close their business and shift it to a part of Melbourne where more Jewish people live.

“I’m devastated I can’t be in this community any more,” Maggie May says. “I care deeply about people who live near our shop and supported our shop. It is a real shame that has been destroyed by this antisemitism and unkindness. I worked almost every day for seven years on that business, and I don’t really know what I am left with now.”

Across urbane, progressive enclaves of Melbourne and Sydney hundreds of people who work in the media, music, the arts and academia, are today experiencing some of what the Moshe family has been through.

They are members of a WhatsApp group created to give Jewish writers, artists, musicians and intellectuals a private space to talk about October 7 and the war in Gaza.

Joshua Moshe was a member and occasional contributor to the group which would discuss their concern about rising intolerance for Jews in their workplaces, schools and broader social circles and — what they could do about that. It is this last aspect, including talk of writing to employers of people with strong public pro-Palestinian positions that has stoked particular controversy.

Joshua, Maggie May and their family business were targeted after a transcript from the chat group, which had swollen to more than 600 members, was leaked to pro-Palestinian activists.

Comments that Joshua made were republished on social media, along with the name of his wife – described by an activist who has never met her as a “raging Zio” – and social media links to their business and Joshua’s band.

This is known as doxxing, a form of online attack which exposes the identities and workplaces of people who would otherwise be anonymous.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20389043 (101004ZFEB24) Notable: Australian professor Ghassan Hage sacked by German research institute for ‘incompatible values’ - A renowned German research institute has sacked an Australian scholar for what it called “incompatible values” after a series of anti-Israel social media posts by the visiting Melbourne University professor. On Thursday, the Max Planck Society, funded by the country’s federal and state governments, said it had cut ties with professor Ghassan Hage. “Recently, he (Professor Hage) has shared a series of posts on social media expressing views that are incompatible with the core values of the Max Planck Society. The Max Planck Society has therefore ended its working relationship with Prof Hage. The freedoms enshrined in (the German constitution) are invaluable to the Max Planck Society.”

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>>130793

Australian professor Ghassan Hage sacked by German research institute for ‘incompatible values’

ALEXI DEMETRIADI - FEBRUARY 9, 2024

A renowned German research ­institute has sacked an Australian scholar for what it called “incompatible values” after a series of anti-Israel social media posts by the visiting Melbourne University professor.

On Thursday, the Max Planck Society, funded by the country’s federal and state governments, said it had cut ties with professor Ghassan Hage.

In a two-page statement, Professor Hage stood by “everything I say in my social media”, saying his posts were “intellectual critiques of Israel”.

He claimed a Facebook post comparing Israel’s military operations to “Nazi anti-Semitic violence” was what led in part to his termination, among others.

“This is, in a nutshell, what has put me at odds with Max Planck Society’s lawyers … What to me is a fair, intellectual critique of ­Israel, for them is ‘anti-Semitism according to the law in Germany’,” he said.

Professor Hage, who is of Lebanese descent, is an anthropology professor at Melbourne University, a prolific author on race and immigration, and a fellow of the Australian Academy of Social Sciences and Humanities.

He had been on extended leave from Melbourne University, working for two years from November 2022 at the German institute, a world leader in science and technology research.

It is unclear what other posts led to the professor’s termination, but in the past few months, on X, he questioned the two-state solution and said Israel would cease to exist as it does now.

“(The) ‘two-state solution’ is the ‘I am Groot’ of Israeli settler colonialism,” he wrote, referencing the Marvel Comics character Groot, a talking tree who says only his name. “It means anything you want and its opposite.”

He also reshared a post casting doubt on claims of sexual assault by Hamas assailants on October 7 and stated Israel would “cease to exist as a Jewish state”.

“It will cease to exist by dissolving back into what it was as Palestine: a multi-religious space where people work on coexisting with each other,” he wrote.

In posts after the institute’s statement, he seemingly criticised the fact he was being “moralised” in Germany.

“They (ethno-nationalist states) are the ones who have a long history of racial hatred, of censoring and burning books … and putting people in concentration camps,” he wrote.

“Murderous, land stealing, colonially implanted ethno-nationalist states are seriously unlikeable. I really hate them.”

In the same thread, Professor Hage said he had “never called for disliking, let alone hating, Jews”.

“Like Muslims, Christians, Greek, Lebanese or Chinese … there are some nice Jewish people and some who are pains in the arse,” he wrote.

“I am living in the very cultures that elevated Jew-hating, the burning of Jewish stores, and the putting of Jews in concentration camps and mass murdering them, into a macabre fine art, and I am being moralised on how not to be anti-Semitic.”

The Max Planck Society’s termination statement set out the values of the institute, alluding to what had driven it to cut ties.

“Recently, he (Professor Hage) has shared a series of posts on social media expressing views that are incompatible with the core values of the Max Planck Society,” it read.

“The Max Planck Society has therefore ended its working relationship with Prof Hage. The freedoms enshrined in (the German constitution) are invaluable to the Max Planck Society.

“These freedoms come with great responsibility. Researchers abuse their civil liberties when they undermine the credibility of science with publicly disseminated statements, thereby damaging the reputation and trust in the institutions that uphold it.”

“Racism, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, discrimination, hatred, and agitation” had no place at the institute, it said. There is no suggestion Professor Hage is any of the above, or that his posts were.

On social media platform X on Thursday, the professor took issue with the implication he was racist and referenced a series of stories in centrist Der Tagesspiegel and centre-right Welt alleging he was anti-Semitic, saying the stories were full of “half-truths … and slimy innuendo”.

In his two-page statement, Professor Hage said the environment that led to his termination was a “real German tragedy” and claimed he had chosen termination over signing a nondisclosure agreement.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/australian-professor-ghassan-hage-sacked-by-german-research-institute-for-incompatible-values/news-story/e6a37363bcb54c7420d22f113c2ff664

https://twitter.com/anthroprofhage/status/1755847698455130214

https://twitter.com/mpgpresident/status/1755338796164342090

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20389048 (101008ZFEB24) Notable: Let local Indigenous voices be heard, Marcia Langton tells Anthony Albanese - Marcia Langton wants the Albanese government to continue to support various forms of Indigenous voices across Australia, including legislated voices, as a way of fixing the failing Closing the Gap agreement.

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>>130949

Let local Indigenous voices be heard, Marcia Langton tells Anthony Albanese

PAIGE TAYLOR - FEBRUARY 10, 2024

Marcia Langton wants the Albanese government to continue to support various forms of ­Indigenous voices across Australia, including legislated voices, as a way of fixing the failing Closing the Gap agreement.

The call from the co-author of the Morrison government’s voice blueprint came as governments contemplate the Productivity Commission’s withering assessment of their “business as usual” approach during the first four years of the Closing the Gap ­national agreement, despite promising to work in partnership with communities to reduce disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

Professor Langton pointed to her 2021 report, co-authored with fellow Indigenous leader Tom Calma, as a means to carry out the shared decision-making found lacking in the current Closing the Gap agreement.

“The Calma-Langton report recommended states and territories legislate the regional voices and engage with them in the way envisaged both in our report and also described in the Productivity Commission report,” she said.

A week before the October 14 referendum, Anthony Albanese ruled out legislating a national voice if Australians said no to putting the advisory body in the Constitution. However, The Weekend Australian has been told there is despair among some Indigenous leaders that the Prime Minister appears to be “running dead” on Indigenous affairs. There was hurt over his comments on Christmas Day that the referendum defeat was no personal loss.

Uluru Dialogue member Geoff Scott said the nation had returned to the status quo on Indigenous issues, which was politically embarrassing.

“Every year the Prime Minister gets up and does a Closing the Gap speech and says it’s terrible again, we will do better next year, and we don’t,” Mr Scott said. “It is normalised. The failure in this space is normal and accepted.”

The South Australian government is close to establishing local and regional Indigenous voices backed by legislation. In the far north of Western Australia, Indigenous communities are forming their own regional voice outside legislation in the hope they can help governments cut waste and direct funding to the projects that work best.

Empowered Communities, an alliance of 10 urban, rural and remote Indigenous regions including La Perouse and Northeast Arnhem Land, says the Closing the Gap agreement will continue to fail while it is top down and government-led. It describes the agreement as “a commitment rather than a method”.

The organisation’s chair, Ian Trust, an elder from the Kimberley town of Kununurra, said: “Australia needs to grapple with ‘how’ to do shared decision-­making. What the Productivity Commission report says is not new. For decades, we’ve known Indigenous people must be more centrally involved in ­decision-making to close the gap – every report since the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody has said this kind of empowerment is essential.”

Mr Trust supported the cashless debit card and objected to the Albanese government’s decision to take it away without consulting his people.

His calls for severe alcohol restrictions in his hometown were also ignored by the McGowan Labor government despite evidence of alcohol-related harm to Indigenous children.

His organisation has established joint decision-making panels that have no legislative authority but operate on the goodwill of individual public servants or sympathetic ministers.

Professor Langton said Closing the Gap across all targets required collaboration of the Aboriginal-led community and government partnership.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/indigenous/let-local-indigenous-voices-be-heard-marcia-langton-tells-anthony-albanese/news-story/0bda3c81439459c8c11545a1b16ec0d0

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20394585 (110812ZFEB24) Notable: Republicans ‘shameful’ for blocking Ukraine aid, says Australia’s Tony Abbott - U.S. Republicans are “shameful” for blocking fresh military aid to Ukraine and holding the country “hostage to some other political objective,” according to staunchly conservative former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

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>>130817

Republicans ‘shameful’ for blocking Ukraine aid, says Australia’s Tony Abbott

Ex-Australian PM says U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has been “all politics and no statesmanship.”

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

LONDON - U.S. Republicans are “shameful” for blocking fresh military aid to Ukraine and holding the country “hostage to some other political objective,” according to staunchly conservative former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Abbott, ex-leader of the center-right Liberal Party in Australia, told POLITICO that Republican U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson has been “all politics and no statesmanship” in his handling of the issue.

Republican lawmakers are withholding their support for new military aid to Ukraine without further funds to stop the flow of illegal border crossings from Mexico.

Senate Republicans this week blocked a $118 billion package which would have sent foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, while also allocating more money to shore up the country’s southern border.

Abbott won election in 2013 on a platform centered largely on stopping illegal migration and reversing measures aimed at cutting carbon emissions.

He is no stranger to conservative U.S. politics, and has spoken several times at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).

Speaking at an event for the Legatum Institute think tank in London, Abbott said he could “absolutely understand why a lot of Americans, particularly the Republicans, are unhappy with what is happening on the border.”

“And yes the Republicans want to pressure the administration into doing more - fair enough,” he said.

“But you should not make something as important as continuing support for the Ukraine hostage to some other political objective.”

Abbott added: “It is absolutely in the interest of every free country that Putin’s aggression fails.”

Congressional Republicans are also being pressured to refuse any bipartisan bill on Ukraine and border security by the party’s likely presidential nominee Donald Trump.

Trump said this week that increased measures at the border “should not be tied to foreign aid in any way, shape, or form.”

Abbott refused to directly criticize Trump, despite the ex-president’s refusal to commit to a continuation of American support for Ukraine if he wins office later this year.

“I’ve tried to make it my rule not to be critical of the leader [of the] free world. And he was and could be again,” the Australian said.

“I just hope that he appreciates, I hope everyone appreciates, that the Ukrainians are fighting for everyone’s freedom - not just their own.”

https://www.politico.eu/article/us-republicans-shameful-blocking-ukraine-aid-australia-tony-abbott/

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20400646 (120822ZFEB24) Notable: Tony Abbott warns ‘war drums are beating‘ - Tony Abbott says the “war drums are beating again” as dictators in Moscow, Beijing and Tehran exploit fissures in the democratic world made by an unlikely coalition of Donald Trump-supporting US Republicans and far left social activists.

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>>130965

Tony Abbott warns ‘war drums are beating‘

WILL GLASGOW - FEBRUARY 12, 2024

Tony Abbott says the “war drums are beating again” as dictators in Moscow, Beijing and Tehran exploit fissures in the democratic world made by an unlikely ­coalition of Donald Trump-­supporting US Republicans and far left social activists.

The former prime minister said the free world had entered the “post-1945” era vulnerable to “restless, revisionist dictatorships”, having eroded their defence capabilities over decades.

“At one level, the problem we have – now that the war drums are beating again, in a way they haven’t for generations – is that the democracies’ armed forces are dreadfully run down,” Mr ­Abbott said in a speech delivered in London published in The Australian.

He said that was being compounded by the failure of the US congress to vote for more funds and weapons for Ukraine.

Republican members working with former president Trump have insisted that further military aid will be agreed to only in return for changes to US immigration policies.

Mr Abbott said this was taking place as Vladimir Putin continued what the Russian autocrat thought was “a mission from God” to claim back territories lost after the collapse of the Soviet Union, and as Xi Jinping’s Chinese Communist Party oversaw “the greatest military expansion in peacetime history”.

He said the “isolationism now rampant inside the Republican Party” was being driven by the “free-riding” of other countries on US strength, leaving the democratic world dangerously vulnerable. “We’re still sleepwalking through lotus land, thinking that the leaders of other countries are as preoccupied as ours … and wanting to believe that because war is unthinkable to us, it must be equally unthinkable to everyone else,” Mr Abbott said.

He said many people in Australia, Britain and other democracies were more focused on “toppling” statues and championing the rights of Palestinians than deterring “global villains” like Mr Putin and Mr Xi.

“Democracies can’t fight without weapons but won’t fight without the belief that we’re worth fighting for; it’s actually our moral disarmament, rather than our military decrepitude, that’s behind the looming catastrophe,” he said.

“The immediate need is to re-arm Ukraine, stand by Israel, position more ships and planes into East Asia, urgently excise China from critical supply chains, swiftly rebuild our defence industrial infrastructure, be ready to mobilise armed forces that adversaries would shrink to take on, and better befriend India, which should one day be America’s equal as a bastion of democracy.

“For that to happen, we need first to be sure that our countries are worth preserving; to me, a no-brainer, but not, perhaps, to generations steeped in notions of white privilege and the evils of colonisation.”

His gloomy assessment was delivered weeks after British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said the UK was “moving from a post-war to pre-war world” and “our adversaries are now more connected with each other”.

It comes after Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Friday said China’s rapid military build-up was continuing “without the transparency and reassurance that the region looks for from great powers”, raising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

In a keynote address in Perth in front of her Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Senator Wong said “deterrence and reassurance are both required to reduce the risk of conflict”.

“Transparency is at the centre of our approach – setting standards for ourselves and expecting those standards to be emulated by others. But without credible military capability, the efficacy of diplomacy is invariably diminished. And without ever more active diplomacy, the risk of military capabilities being called into service is greater,” she said.

Mr Abbott’s assessment was far blunter, including on Canberra’s nightmare scenario: a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. He said “as long as there’s a hard-line communist regime in Beijing … there will be an attempt to seize Taiwan … if possible, without a fight, through subversion and cybersiege; otherwise through a blockade; but eventually through the mother of all bombardments and armed occupation of the ruins.”

He said an attack on Taiwan could precipitate the end of the US alliance system. “If the US fails to defend Taiwan, the whole global order is deranged, as former US allies make the best accommodations they can with their challengers; or alternatively arm themselves to the teeth in the harsh new world that the Pax Americana no longer sustains.”

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/tony-abbott-warns-war-drums-are-beating/news-story/3406b31283de6b5f2f6515e57f21a6cc

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20400665 (120832ZFEB24) Notable: Why the future rests on our moral and martial fortitude - "The immediate need is to re-arm Ukraine, stand by Israel, position more ships and planes into East Asia, urgently excise China from critical supply chains, swiftly rebuild our defence industrial infrastructure, be ready to mobilise armed forces that adversaries would shrink to take on, and better befriend India which should one day be America’s equal as a bastion of democracy." - Tony Abbott, former prime minister of Australia - theaustralian.com.au

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>>130965

>>130967

Why the future rests on our moral and martial fortitude

TONY ABBOTT - FEBRUARY 12, 2024

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When the British defence minister Grant Shapps recently warned that the world had moved from a post-war to a pre-war era, I doubt he meant that war was immediately likely; more that it was distinctly possible, maybe even probable, if current trends persist, with the balance of military strength between the main democracies and their challengers becoming steadily worse.

As well, he was drawing attention to the fact that the post-1945 world – as recently as the start of 2020, more safe, more free, more fair, and more rich than at any time in history, thanks to the Pax Americana – is now past. And that the globalised world, ushered in by the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the economic opening up of China, is also now past.

Because the world is again dividing into two camps: the restless, revisionist dictatorships – communist, militarist, or Islamist –that are more than ready to use force to achieve their goals; versus the democracies that still believe people should be able to choose how they live, and how they’re ruled, but aren’t so sure whether this can or should be defended.

The worry is that this new Cold War will be much harder to win than the old one; and that it might be less likely to stay more cold than hot. For one thing, China is a more formidable competitor than the old Soviet Union ever was. Unlike Russia, it’s an industrial giant, now with a military to match. It’s become deeply integrated into the global economy and its diaspora is everywhere.

It has to be said, though, that Taiwan – free, liberal, democratic, creative Taiwan – plus the millions of well assimilated ethnic Chinese in countries like Australia, prove that there’s no totalitarian gene in the Chinese DNA, which is why Beijing is so ruthlessly, relentlessly, indefatigably set on crushing it; and intimidating them.

For another, the Islamists controlling Iran, whose ilk might readily come to dominate the entire region, are more driven by apocalyptic religion than considerations of national interest. And it’s hard to deter people who have convinced themselves that martyrdom is not just something they risk but their very destiny.

And there’s something of that with Putin too. He’s sure he’s on a mission from God to recreate greater Russia, avenging the most monumental disaster of the 20th century, he thinks: the disintegration of the old Soviet Empire.

It’s this comparative absence of rationality that could make war harder to avoid in this latest Cold War than in the last.

And that’s assuming that the democracies are strong-willed enough to pursue deterrence rather than appeasement.

Right now, the US congress’s failure to vote more funds and weaponry for Ukraine; the global pressure on Israel to end its war against Hamas because the terrorists use human shields; and the ongoing strategic ambiguity over whether to defend Taiwan – this enticing weakness of will – is encouraging all the enemies of freedom. As long as the Ukrainians are militarily inhibited relative to their aggressor, forbidden to launch long range attacks while Russia pulverises Ukraine’s cities and infrastructure, Putin eventually will win; and he won’t stop there. The least bad outcome would be a new iron curtain through Eastern Europe, while Putin probes for his next victim.

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20400702 (120845ZFEB24) Notable: WA Liberal senator and former defence minister Linda Reynolds to quit politics - Former defence minister and WA Liberal senator Linda Reynolds has announced she'll stand down from politics at the next election. In a statement posted to Facebook, Ms Reynolds said she would not seek Liberal Party pre-selection for another term beyond June 2025.

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>>>/qresearch/20092945

WA Liberal senator and former defence minister Linda Reynolds to quit politics

Keane Bourke - 12 February 2024

Former defence minister and WA Liberal senator Linda Reynolds has announced she'll stand down from politics at the next election.

Ms Reynolds was elected to the Senate in 2014, before being re-elected in 2016 and 2019.

She was first appointed to cabinet under the Morrison government as Minister for Defence Industry in 2019, before serving in several other portfolios.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Ms Reynolds said she would not seek Liberal Party pre-selection for another term beyond June 2025.

"For forty years I have proudly served my nation in the army, in the Liberal Party, in defence industry, in parliament and in government," she said.

"It is rare in politics to have the opportunity to choose the time and circumstances of your departure, and my decision has been made after considerable reflection of what is behind me and the opportunities that are now ahead of me."

Ms Reynolds went on to say the health of democracy and political parties could not be taken for granted.

"Both must be constantly renewed and strengthened," she wrote.

"I will of course keep working with my party to assist it to diversify and strengthen and do all I can to support the election of Peter Dutton as our next Prime Minister and Libby Mettam as WA's next Premier.

Higgins defamation case continues

Ms Reynolds is currently suing the ACT government, the territory's former top prosecutor and Brittany Higgins for defamation.

Ms Higgins claimed she was raped by a colleague in Senator Reynolds's ministerial office in 2019 and criticised her and her staff for failing to provide adequate support to her in the aftermath.

Ms Reynolds was hospitalised during the saga as a "precautionary measure" and took an extended absence from her role as then-Defence Minister.

She later apologised for and retracted a comment that Ms Higgins was a "lying cow", which she made on the day her former staffer went public with her allegation.

The legal action against Ms Higgins centres around two social media posts in which Ms Reynolds claims she was defamed.

The case against the ACT relates to a letter its former director of public prosecutions wrote to the Australian Federal Police during Bruce Lehrmann's now-abandoned rape trial.

No findings have been made against Mr Lehrmann who denied the accusations against him.

Leader of the Opposition in the Senate Simon Birmingham was the first high-profile Liberal to pay tribute to Ms Reynolds in the wake of her announcement.

In a statement, he paid tribute to Ms Reynolds's "dedicated service, leadership and advocacy".

"I look forward to continuing to serve alongside Linda for the remainder of her term and extend my deepest gratitude for her service to our country," he wrote.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-02-12/linda-reynolds-quitting-politics/103456906

https://www.facebook.com/LindaReynoldsWA/posts/921067286315720

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20400714 (120850ZFEB24) Notable: Defence in Boxer war with Marles as budget fight escalates - The army’s $5.7bn Boxer armoured vehicle program has become the latest bargaining chip in ­Defence’s escalating war with Richard Marles, with the department warning the government’s demands for savings are threatening the long-awaited capability.

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Defence in Boxer war with Marles as budget fight escalates

BEN PACKHAM - FEBRUARY 12, 2024

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The army’s $5.7bn Boxer armoured vehicle program has become the latest bargaining chip in ­Defence’s escalating war with Richard Marles, with the department warning the government’s demands for savings are threatening the long-awaited capability.

Multiple sources said the Defence Minister’s funding battle with the department could force renegotiation of the contract with Germany’s Rheinmetall for 211 Boxer vehicles, threatening jobs at the company’s Queensland plant and potential export orders.

The warnings came days after Mr Marles delivered a brutal assessment of his department’s performance, declaring it had “a long way to go” before it could claim to have a “culture of excellence”.

Mr Marles and Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy are looking for savings to pay for nuclear submarines, ships and missiles.

Projects not aligned with last year’s Defence Strategic Review – which demanded a more lethal, agile force – are set to be scaled back, delayed or cancelled in a new 10-year capability plan.

A Defence source said if new funding was not found, plans to produce 186 of 211 Boxer vehicles in Australia “may have to be cut”.

The same source said the cap­ability planning process was ­becoming increasingly chaotic, and the department was “burning out trying to keep up with the ministers’ offices”.

“The schedule of government-defence decision-making has been completely disbanded,” the Defence insider said. “All interactions have been ad hoc, with very little lead time for preparation.”

Mr Marles’s spokeswoman refused to comment.

One former senior commander said when Defence was under budget pressure, it often played a “gold watch” card with the government to stave off cuts or secure additional funding.

“They say ‘We have nothing more to give you, government, except this iconic capability’. A strong minister would say ‘Nice try. Get me another option,’ ” the source said.

DSR co-author Peter Dean said the brinkmanship over key projects was a symptom of the high-stakes reform contest under way between government and Defence.

“Whenever we get to the pointy end around resources and reform, there is always going to be tension,” Professor Dean said.

“The government’s role is to stick to the strategy it has agreed on and hold the department to account for that. The department’s role is to reform as best they can and provide the best advice to the government.

“Ultimately, we have civilian oversight over the military, so it’s the government who’s responsible for ensuring that reform happens.”

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20400740 (120902ZFEB24) Notable: UK activist Kellie-Jay Keen accuses ABC, Pesutto of defamation over Moira Deeming matter - UK women’s rights activist Kellie-Jay Keen has issued defamation concerns notices against both the ABC and Victorian opposition leader John Pesutto, as she prepares to lodge a case in the Federal Court, which could run concurrently with expelled Liberal Moira Deeming’s.

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UK activist Kellie-Jay Keen accuses ABC, Pesutto of defamation over Moira Deeming matter

RACHEL BAXENDALE - FEBRUARY 12, 2024

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UK women’s rights activist Kellie-Jay Keen has issued defamation concerns notices against both the ABC and Victorian opposition leader John Pesutto, as she prepares to lodge a case in the Federal Court, which could run concurrently with expelled Liberal Moira Deeming’s.

Mrs Deeming is suing Mr Pesutto for allegedly defaming her after she attended a “Let Women Speak” rally last March, which was gatecrashed by neo-Nazis.

The case has been set down for a two-week trial in September, where Mrs Deeming and Mr Pesutto will respectively be represented by star defamation barristers Sue Chrysanthou SC, and Matt Collins KC.

The March demonstration was hosted by Ms Keen’s organisation “Standing for Women UK”, in protest against what attendees see as the infringement of transgender self-identification laws upon the rights of women and children.

Fellow gender-critical feminist and protest organiser Angie Jones has also lodged a concerns notice against Mr Pesutto, using the same legal team as Ms Keen, namely Brisbane-based Alexander Rashidi Lawyers, barrister Bridie Nolan, and lawyer, former Liberal candidate and outspoken critic of recent changes to transgender laws, Katherine Deves.

Ms Keen’s concerns notices follow a notice she issued in late August, against Mr Pesutto and the other three members of his Liberal leadership team, accusing them of making “grossly misconceived, wilfully vexatious, and wretchedly false” claims, which she argued had seen her become the target of “extreme hate, abuse, harassment, and stalking”, and culminated in her “being physically attacked” and “placed in life threatening danger” at a Let Women Speak rally in New Zealand.

In her new notice against the ABC, she accuses the public broadcaster of defaming her in a 7.30 interview, which was conducted by host Sarah Ferguson with Mr Pesutto on March 27 — just over a week after the Melbourne “Let Women Speak” rally, and the evening after Ms Deeming had been suspended from the Liberal partyroom.

The notice accuses 7.30 of making 11 defamatory imputations against Ms Keen, implying that she either is a neo-Nazi or sympathises with people who are.

In her introduction to the interview, Ms Ferguson described Ms Keen as “controversial UK figure, Kellie-Jay Keen, an anti-trans activist associated with the far-right”, and went on to portray her in questions to Mr Pesutto as “someone with very clear … far-right associations, many of which you detailed in the dossier that you presented to your own partyroom” and “a woman with Neo-Nazi and far right associations.”

Ahead of the partyroom meeting at which Ms Deeming was suspended, Mr Pesutto had circulated a 15-page dossier of ­social media screenshots and media reports – mostly relating to Ms Keen – accusing the MP of ­“organising, promoting and participating in a rally with speakers and other organisers who have been publicly associated with far right-wing extremist groups including neo-Nazi activists”.

The dossier sought to depict Ms Keen as having an “association with far-right extremists”, citing a Wikipedia article that states she was interviewed by a “far-right YouTuber” and photographed alongside a Norwegian neo-Nazi in 2019.

Ms Keen’s lawyers took issue with both assertions in her August concerns notice, which states that she was not aware of French Canadian white nationalist Jean-François Gariépy’s views when she was interviewed by him, and was unaware of the of the identity of Norwegian neo-Nazi Hans Jørgen Lysglimt Johansen when he “imposed upon her to take (a) selfie with him” and posted it online.

The dossier also referred to Ms Keen’s use on the social media platform Spinster of a profile picture featuring a Barbie doll wearing a Nazi uniform, something Ms Keen’s lawyers argue “was an ‘in house’ ‘tongue-in-cheek’ retort to a group of left-wing feminists who publicly called our client ‘Nazi Barbie’ in debate on the social media platform.”

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405583 (130818ZFEB24) Notable: Labor under fire for failing to seek orders to lock up freed foreign murderers and rapists - Anthony Albanese has been accused of putting the public at risk amid revelations his government is yet to seek orders to lock up any of the dozens of ­foreign murderers, rapists or ­violent thugs freed into the community following a High Court ruling last year. It was revealed on Monday that seven murderers and 37 sex offenders, including pedophiles, were among the 149 immigration detainees who were released. Twenty-four of those freed have since reoffended, while 36 have been exempted from wearing ankle bracelets. The government’s failure to use its legislation to secure preventive detention orders for any of the released criminals comes despite the formation of a taskforce of 20 home affairs lawyers more than two months ago to prepare the applications.

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Labor under fire for failing to seek orders to lock up freed foreign murderers and rapists

BEN PACKHAM and PAUL GARVEY - FEBRUARY 13, 2024

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Anthony Albanese has been ­accused of putting the public at risk amid revelations his government is yet to seek orders to lock up any of the dozens of ­foreign murderers, rapists or ­violent thugs freed into the community following a High Court ruling last year.

It was revealed on Monday that seven murderers and 37 sex offenders – including pedophiles – were among the 149 immigration detainees who were released. Twenty-four of those freed have since reoffended, while 36 have been exempted from wearing ankle bracelets.

The government’s failure to use its legislation to secure preventive detention orders for any of the released criminals comes ­despite the formation of a taskforce of 20 home affairs lawyers more than two months ago to prepare the applications.

Department of Home Affairs general counsel Clare Sharp told a Senate estimates hearing on ­Monday: “We have not filed an application yet. We’re continuing to compile the evidence.”

The Coalition accused Labor of a “shocking failure of transparency” as Immigration Minister Andrew Giles refused to ­provide further details on the ­released ­detainees in parliamentary question time.

Opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson demanded ongoing updates on the matter, saying the Coalition should not have to “drag this information” out of the government.

“The Albanese government has put community safety at risk through their leisurely application of the law that was rushed through the parliament to protect Australians,” Senator Paterson said.

“It’s time for the Minister for Home Affairs to get her department into gear to finally protect Australians. Excuses won’t cut it if more crimes are committed against the community.”

The Prime Minister said the government was taking its time to ensure orders lodged under the laws, which passed on December 6, would survive a legal ­challenge.

“There’s no point putting in an application that is not successful,” Mr Albanese told 2GB.

The government and law-­enforcement agencies were caught flat-footed by the High Court’s November 8 verdict ­ordering the release of NZYQ, a ­Rohingya pedophile. The ruling outlawed indefinite detention, forcing the release of stateless criminals and those who could not otherwise be deported.

Mr Giles dodged repeated questions in parliament on Monday on whether those detainees who were ­not required to wear ankle bracelets had committed crimes since their release.

He also refused to say whether those convicted of murder or sex offences in the cohort were wearing the monitoring devices, saying their management was the responsibility of a Home Affairs-led community safety board.

Border Force officials told the Senate estimates hearing that the community detention board had not met for nearly three weeks.

The disclosures came as Home Affairs belatedly tabled documents requested by the ­opposition, showing the offences committed by released detainees.

They included 72 violent offenders, 16 convicted of domestic violence and stalking, and 13 who had been found guilty of serious drug offences. A further four individuals were either convicted of people smuggling, international crimes or low-level offences, or were not criminal offenders.

Cabinet minister Murray Watt, representing Home Affairs ­Minister Clare O’Neil, sought to blame the opposition for the ­debacle, arguing it had demanded the laws be modelled on the High Risk Terrorists Offenders regime, which had a high legal threshold.

“I’m sure that you share my view that when we seek these ­orders, we don’t want to see them defeated because of a lack of ­evidence,” Senator Watt told Senator Paterson.

Those still in the community include Malaysian hit man Sirul Azhar Umar, who killed a pregnant woman ­before blowing her body up with military explosives.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405608 (130830ZFEB24) Notable: Revealed: state by state breakdown of dangerous detainees - A breakdown of the 149 immigration detainees released under the Albanese government’s botched response to a High Court ruling last year has revealed that 60 live in NSW and 40 in Victoria, while a further 20 have been released in WA and 20 in Queensland. The Australian has obtained documents, ordered to be released by the Department of Home Affairs to the Senate on Monday night, containing the figures revealing how many and in which states the former detainees are now living in the community. The documents suggested there were less than five in the ACT and less than 10 in South Australia. There were none in Tasmania.

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>>130972

Revealed: state by state breakdown of dangerous detainees

SIMON BENSON and RHIANNON DOWN - FEBRUARY 13, 2024

A breakdown of the 149 immigration detainees released under the Albanese government’s botched response to a High Court ruling last year has revealed that 60 live in NSW and 40 in Victoria, while a further 20 have been released in WA and 20 in Queensland.

The Australian has obtained documents, ordered to be released by the Department of Home Affairs to the Senate on Monday night, containing the figures revealing how many and in which states the former detainees are now living in the community.

The documents suggested there were less than five in the ACT and less than 10 in South Australia. There were none in Tasmania.

The Department refused to be more specific about what cities or locations, citing a potential breach of privacy for the individuals.

It also refused calls from the Coalition to define the locations by local government area.

The department was forced to release the information after the Coalition demanded the production of documents in a Senate Estimates hearing Monday.

The Coalition has attacked the government for not yet seeking orders to lock up any of the dozens of ­dangerous non citizens released into the community following the High Court’s landmark “NZYQ” decision on November 8.

It was revealed on Monday that seven murderers and 37 sex offenders, including pedophiles, were among the 149 immigration detainees who were released. Twenty-four of those freed have since reoffended, while 36 have been exempted from wearing ankle bracelets.

But the government has not yet used the legislation rushed through parliament last December to secure preventive detention orders for any of the released criminals, despite the formation of a taskforce of 20 home affairs lawyers more than two months ago to prepare the applications.

The Home Affairs-led Community Protection Board met for the first time on December 11 and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said on Tuesday it had been meeting regularly since then to “provide advice” on the management of the released detainees.

He said that, when it came to the issue of making preventive detention orders, there was a “very high threshold that is required to make a successful application for an order of this kind.”

“Peter Dutton and he will also know that it took them three years for the first application to be made under the High Risk Terror Offenders scheme, which they set up and which they called on to be the model for our scheme,” Mr Giles said.

“Evidence in Estimates yesterday show how committed we are to making sure that this works and of course that we make sure that applications are successful. We’ve set up a large team to work through the cohort and to progress towards an application as soon as we can.”

“We are working around the clock to ensure that applications are made a soon as possible, and critically, that applications are successful, not half bakes.”

But opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson rejected Mr Giles’ argument the government was limited by the high threshold required to utilise the preventative detention laws introduced last year.

“They’re just dragging their feet and not putting the priority and the resources behind this issue to make sure the community is safe,” Senator Paterson told Sky News. “It’s been more than two months since the parliament rushed through legislation before Christmas, to get these dangerous criminals off the street.”

“And in the meantime they are reoffending. We know of at least 18 who have been arrested under state and federal laws, although we don’t know if they are in custody or not. And we know of at least seven who have breached their visa conditions.”

Speaking to the Coalition’s joint party room, Peter Dutton said Mr Giles looked both “weak and incompetent” and “the bigger fool for not being across his brief” after he was grilled on the government’s inaction on the NZYQ High Court detainees during question time on Monday.

Nationals Leader David Littleproud also urged members to hone in on Mr Giles, describing him as the “weakest link” in the Labor ministry, and called on Coalition MPs to prepare for an election this year.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/revealed-state-by-state-breakdown-of-dangerous-detainees/news-story/0681f27dd3e877cf76940632597177d8

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405618 (130837ZFEB24) Notable: Federal government moves to criminalise 'doxxing' after publication of Jewish Australians' WhatsApp messages - The federal government will move to criminalise "doxxing" after the details of a WhatsApp group involving hundreds of Jewish Australians were published online. The government said the legislation, aimed at outlawing the practice of publishing personal details with malicious intent, would be brought to parliament as soon as possible.

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>>130793

>>130956

Federal government moves to criminalise 'doxxing' after publication of Jewish Australians' WhatsApp messages

Tom Lowrey - 13 February 2024

The federal government will move to criminalise "doxxing" after the details of a WhatsApp group involving hundreds of Jewish Australians were published online.

The government said the legislation, aimed at outlawing the practice of publishing personal details with malicious intent, would be brought to parliament as soon as possible.

The log of the private WhatsApp group, involving Jewish Australians largely working in creative industries, was recently published online.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Nine Radio the incident prompted a decision to move quickly to criminalise the practice.

"I've asked the attorney-general to bring forward legislation in response to the privacy act review, including laws that deal with so-called doxxing, which is basically the malicious publication of private information online," he said.

Lobby groups such as the Executive Council of Australian Jewry welcomed the new laws, having publicly called for the change in recent days.

Doxxing is commonly defined as publishing a person's private details, including names, addresses, emails and phone numbers with the intent of causing harm, such as harassment.

Pro-Palestinian advocates who shared the transcript from the WhatsApp group have defended the move as being in the public interest and rejected the suggestion it was doxxing. They argue personal details beyond names were largely redacted.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said the laws would fold into already-planned changes to privacy laws.

"The increasing use of online platforms to harm people through the malicious release of their personal and private information is a deeply disturbing development," he said.

"The recent targeting of members of the Australian Jewish community through doxxing was shocking, but sadly a far from isolated event."

The laws are expected to be tailored to avoid impacting public-interest journalism.

Cyber expert casts doubt on usefulness of laws

Details of how the laws will operate are relatively scant, but some are already questioning how doxxing can be policed.

Nigel Phair, a professor in cybersecurity at Monash University, said finding culprits to prosecute could be very hard.

"It's pretty easy to have a degree of anonymity online," he said.

"It's pretty easy to set up social media profiles to share this information, and use jurisdictions far from where you live, to use devices that you don't normally do, and basically obstruct who you are.

"So actually trying to find who the people are that have released the information is super difficult."

He said people who discovered their personal details being were shared online should probably first contact the social media platform directly.

"The best bet people have got, really, is to go to the individual platforms where their information might be, and make formal requests for them to remove the posts," he said.

What is doxxing?

Doxxing is an abbreviation of the phrase "dropping documents".

It involves releasing personal information — such as phone numbers, addresses, or social media profiles — to a digital audience.

The practice developed out of the hacker culture in the 1990s but gained more prominence at the beginning of this decade, when the hacktivist group Anonymous deployed it against law enforcement.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-02-13/federal-government-to-criminalise-doxxing/103458052

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405625 (130845ZFEB24) Notable: Video: ABC Indigenous Affairs editor Bridget Brennan is under investigation after controversial comments on Australia Day - The ABC ombudsman is investigating controversial comments made by Indigenous Affairs editor Bridget Brennan in an Australia Day news report where she declared to viewers the country “always was and always will be Aboriginal land.”

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>>130923

ABC Indigenous Affairs editor Bridget Brennan is under investigation after controversial comments on Australia Day

SOPHIE ELSWORTH - FEBRUARY 13, 2024

The ABC ombudsman is investigating controversial comments made by Indigenous Affairs editor Bridget Brennan in an Australia Day news report where she declared to viewers the country “always was and always will be Aboriginal land.”

Managing director David Anderson said on Tuesday the taxpayer-funded broadcaster had received numerous complaints about Brennan’s comments but he stood by her on-air remarks that she made to ABC News Breakfast host Michael Rowland in a news segment.

“Bridget is a journalist …‘always was always will be’ is a common term that’s been used by companies and been used by many people to reflect that we have the oldest living continuous culture in this country,” Mr Anderson told Senate Estimates.

“It is not a statement of intent, rather it is a statement that is commonly used.

“I think that when that cross happened to Bridget, that Bridget was reflecting the perspective that she was encountering while she was there (at the Wugulora Ceremony at Barangaroo in Sydney).”

Senator Hollie Hughes quizzed Mr Anderson about the comments made by Brennan, a Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta woman, and said they did not reflect the views of all Aboriginal people.

“It’s her view, so I’m trying to understand at what point does the editorial standard of journalistic behaviour kick in,” Senator Hughes said.

“If they want to be commentators, great, let’s just say commentators, they are not journalists, they are not reporting the news … they are reflecting their own opinions.”

In another cross later in the day Brennan said to Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council spokesman Nathan Moran: “It’s been a pretty rough year for our mob hasn’t it.”

Under the ABC’s editorial guidelines it states that independence must apply in the gathering and presentation of news and information to ensure it is impartial.

Brennan was contacted for comment.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/media/abc-indigenous-affairs-editor-bridget-brennan-is-under-investigation-after-controversial-comments-on-australia-day/news-story/94c6ba5c24b9f881bf73f560b15d4d76

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405666 (130920ZFEB24) Notable: ASIO concerned about 'spontaneous violence' at home, not Hamas, says spy chief - The ongoing war in the Middle East and allegations an Australian was fighting for a designated terrorist organisation have not heightened the risk of terrorism at home. The national terrorism threat remained probable, with intelligence agency ASIO concerned about spontaneous violence, ASIO head Mike Burgess said.

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ASIO concerned about 'spontaneous violence' at home, not Hamas, says spy chief

The leader of the national intelligence agency was questioned about whether the war in the Middle East and a link to a well-known terrorist group are cause for concern at home.

AAP / sbs.com.au - 13 February 2024

The ongoing war in the Middle East and allegations an Australian was fighting for a designated terrorist organisation have not heightened the risk of terrorism at home.

The national terrorism threat remained probable, with intelligence agency ASIO concerned about spontaneous violence, ASIO head Mike Burgess said.

"No, there's no reason you should be concerned," Burgess told a Senate hearing late Monday night when asked about an increased risk at home.

Opposition home affairs spokesperson James Paterson pressed Burgess on whether he could confirm an Australian man claimed by Hezbollah was fighting for the designated terrorist organisation.

The government confirmed two Australian citizens — brothers Ibrahim and Ali Bazzi — were killed in an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon before Christmas.

Hezbollah, allied with Hamas, claimed Ali Bazzi as one of its fighters and he was given a military funeral.

"I'll talk to generics: if there is an Australian overseas fighting for an organisation that the Australian government considers a terrorist organisation, that is a potential concern," he said.

"But it really depends on where they direct the energy of their ideology and what they believe.

"If that's not against Australia ... that's not a direct threat to Australia or Australians."

Paterson also quizzed the spy chief on whether continuing protests over the Hamas-Israel war in Australia could lead to escalating violence.

He pointed to an incident where police recommended members of the Jewish community go home during Shabbat prayers due to protests.

While there were strong emotions about what was happening in the Middle East, Australia's current terror threat covered the risk of spontaneous violence, Burgess said.

There was a difference between spontaneous violence and people who harboured violent ideologies, he said.

"We are concerned about, and continue to be concerned about, spontaneous violence, and when different sides of protests come together, sometimes there is some heat," he said.

"There have been a large number of protests, most of them have been peaceful, some have had situations that you've outlined but that doesn't ... mean we raise the terrorism threat level.

"We focus on people with violent ideology that think that's the answer for their political cause."

Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watt earlier expressed dismay at how the conflict had in his view prevented Australians from seeing people who disagreed with their view as human beings.

"People have been using ideologies across the board to justify some pretty appalling behaviour towards people in our community," he told ABC radio.

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/asio-concerned-about-spontaneous-violence-at-home-not-hamas-says-spy-chief/4ipms0e71

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20405672 (130925ZFEB24) Notable: Government apologises to ASIO director-general for ‘pressure release’ briefing disclosure - The federal government has apologised to ASIO director-general Mike Burgess after a confidential briefing to a Labor MP where he purportedly described pro-Palestine rallies as a “pressure release” on domestic terror was relayed to a voter. Speaking during a budget estimates hearing on Monday night, the director-general said any and all briefings were confidential, and should not have been disclosed by the member. In December, The Australian revealed how Higgins Labor MP Michelle Ananda-Rajah wrote to a Jewish constituent who had raised concerns about the location of Melbourne’s weekly pro-Palestine rallies. “On the matter of protests, the DG of ASIO, Mike Burgess, ­advised me that these (pro-Palestine rallies) serve as a pressure release, which is valuable given the real risk of a domestic terror attack,” the MP wrote to the voter.

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>>130803

>>130977

Government apologises to ASIO director-general for ‘pressure release’ briefing disclosure

ALEXI DEMETRIADI - FEBRUARY 13, 2024

The federal government has apologised to ASIO director-general Mike Burgess after a confidential briefing to a Labor MP where he purportedly described pro-Palestine rallies as a “pressure release” on domestic terror was relayed to a voter.

Speaking during a budget estimates hearing on Monday night, the director-general said any and all briefings were confidential, and should not have been disclosed by the member.

“A private briefing is a private briefing,” he said.

In December, The Australian revealed how Higgins Labor MP Michelle Ananda-Rajah wrote to a Jewish constituent who had raised concerns about the location of Melbourne’s weekly pro-Palestine rallies.

“On the matter of protests, the DG of ASIO, Mike Burgess, ­advised me that these (pro-Palestine rallies) serve as a pressure release, which is valuable given the real risk of a domestic terror attack,” the MP wrote to the voter.

“I can live with a protest (provided it is respectful) but not with terrorism.”

When questioned on the purported advice by Opposition Home Affairs spokesman James Paterson, Mr Burgess said any briefings were private and he was not aware that Ms Ananda-Rajah intended to relay information.

“I did not intend that (for his purported comments to be relayed publicly), no,” he said.

When asked if Ms Ananda-Rajah had sought permission to relay the briefing to a voter, Mr Burgess said she had not.

He also revealed that a member of the government, in the days after The Australian’s report, had reached out to apologise.

“I did receive an apology from the government… I’d prefer not to say (who gave the apology),” Mr Burgess said.

Senator Paterson told The Australian disclosing confidential information from ASIO was a “flagrant breach”.

“It was grossly inappropriate for Ms Ananda-Rajah to publicly disclose what was purportedly said at a private briefing by the ASIO director-general,” he said.

“It is a good thing someone in the government has apologised for this flagrant breach, which undermines the trusted working relationship our security and intelligence agencies need to be able to have with parliament.”

The Senator said that Ms Ananda-Rajah’s interpretation of exactly what Mr Burgess said couldn’t be totally relied upon, but urged Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil to make clear sensitive briefings were confidential.

“The minister should ensure all her Labor colleagues understand the importance of respecting confidentiality of briefings from intelligence agencies,” he said.

A pro-Palestine rally has been held every Sunday outside the State Library Victoria, which is hosting the Hebrew-scripture exhibition, Luminous. The voter wanted to talk to Ms Ananda-Rajah about the location, given herself and fellow members of the Jewish community were concerned about wearing identifiable clothing en route to the exhibition.

Previously, Ms Ananda-Rajah declined to comment specifically on the apparent advice, given its “sensitive” nature.

She did say that social cohesion was “our most valuable national asset”, and it is understood she has been a “staunch friend” of the Jewish community in her electorate and Victoria.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/government-apologises-to-asio-directorgeneral-for-pressure-release-briefing-disclosure/news-story/fac303d917760f06f3229cebb946a56b

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20411034 (140752ZFEB24) Notable: Anthony Albanese handballs Indigenous treaty pledge to states - Anthony Albanese has passed the political minefield of treaty onto the states as he reframes his Indigenous affairs agenda following the failure of the voice, revealing Labor will “take the time needed” to establish a truth-telling body and put its ­immediate focus on practical issues such as jobs, education, housing and justice.

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>>130814

Anthony Albanese handballs Indigenous treaty pledge to states

PAIGE TAYLOR and SARAH ISON - FEBRUARY 14, 2024

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Anthony Albanese has passed the political minefield of treaty onto the states as he reframes his Indigenous affairs agenda following the failure of the voice, revealing Labor will “take the time needed” to establish a truth-telling body and put its ­immediate focus on practical issues such as jobs, education, housing and justice.

Handing down the annual Closing the Gap report, which revealed only four out of 19 goals were on track to be met and four were going backwards, the Prime Minister said the government must find a better way to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Mr Albanese said the government would work towards creating a Makarrata commission, a key plank of the Uluru Statement from the Heart aimed at elevating Indigenous stories in the telling of Australian history.

The intention of the Makarrata Commission was also to oversee treaty making, but Mr Albanese said this process was being ­handled by the states and his ­government would “respond to their progress”.

The comments were interpreted by Indigenous leaders as a delay in establishing the Makarrata Commission, despite Mr Albanese saying on election night he would implement the Uluru Statement in full. The Uluru Statement comprises an Indigenous voice, treaty and truth telling.

The government is refusing to provide a time frame for when it intends to establish the truth-­telling body, despite committing $5m towards the process in the budget.

There was also criticism from Indigenous figures for leaving treaty-making in the hands of the states, given the Coalition had walked away from supporting the process in Queensland and Victoria since the failure of the voice referendum.

Mr Albanese delivered his speech in parliament after telling a meeting of Labor MPs they should be proud for taking the voice to a referendum. “This government remains determined to move reconciliation forward and seek better results for Indigenous Australians,” he told parliament.

“As we take the time needed to get Makarrata and truth-telling right, the work of treaty goes on at a state and territory level. There will be a diversity of processes, ­reflecting the diversity of First ­Nations across the continent.

“And we will respond to their progress while focusing on our ­immediate responsibilities: Closing the Gap, self-determination and tangible outcomes, particularly in jobs, housing, education, health and justice.”

A prominent supporter of the Uluru Statement – Uluru Dialogue member Eddie Synot – said Mr Albanese’s speech in parliament on Tuesday appeared to be a “poor excuse for inaction”.

“It’s time for leadership and the government should be leading on Makarrata and on a legislated voice,” said Mr Synot, an Indigenous man and lecturer at Griffith University school of law.

“People voted against a voice in the Constitution, not the voice entirely.”

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20411041 (140756ZFEB24) Notable: Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney flags path for truth telling in school curriculum - Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney says she was in active discussions with cabinet to develop a model for a truth telling process, flagging that it could be included in the school curriculum though she remained “very open” on the framework.

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>>130814

Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney flags path for truth telling in school curriculum

RHIANNON DOWN - FEBRUARY 14, 2024

Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney says she was in active discussions with cabinet to develop a model for a truth telling process, flagging that it could be included in the school curriculum though she remained “very open” on the framework.

Ms Burney also sought to clarify Anthony Albanese’s commitment to pursue a Makarrata commission, saying Labor would take time to get the process that signifies a coming together after a struggle and truth telling “right”, while the work of treaty making continues at a state level.

Mr Burney said she was engaged in “discussions with the cabinet” about a model for truth telling, but would not reveal details on the government’s next steps following last year’s failure of the voice referendum.

“That’s absolutely why I’m talking to people,” she told ABC Radio National.

“There isn’t a particular model that I’ve got in mind, I am very open and the government is very open to what it might look like.”

Ms Burney said the referendum result had been “devastating” but other government initiatives could improve the lives of Indigenous people, when asked how she would bring people back to the table to address these issues.

“There is enormous hurt and in many cases dismay at the outcome of the referendum, there is no two ways about that,” she said.

“But there is also the important point that the referendum is over and done with.

“We accept the outcome, whether we like it or not, we accept the outcome, and we respect the outcome that the Australian people delivered.”

Ms Burney spruiked the Albanese government’s track record of improving the lives of Indigenous Australians, including an announcement on Tuesday that a commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children would be established along with a scheme to create 3000 jobs in remote communities.

The Prime Minister handed down a landmark Closing the Gap report this week which revealed the nation was only on track to reach four out of 19 goals, while four were going backwards.

“But that doesn’t mean it was the shot in the locker, there are many things,” she said.

“For example, the junior ranger programs, the jobs we announced yesterday, for example the Children’s Commissioner that we announced yesterday, for example Wi Fi into remote communities, things like clean water for the first time in many communities, those things will continue.

“Including the wonderful initiatives that we’re undertaking in health, including rheumatic heart disease, those things will continue.

“The referendum was devastating, but I can tell you this; as I’ve moved around the country, the resilience of Aboriginal people is inspirational.”

She also said the reason the nation was falling so far behind its Closing the Gaps targets was because “people like (Peter) Dutton use Aboriginal affairs as a political football” and focus on “short term change”.

Ms Burney also ruled out the Opposition Leader’s push for an audit of how money was spent on how funding for Indigenous Australians was spent.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/indigenous/indigenous-affairs-minister-linda-burney-flags-path-for-truth-telling-in-school-curriculum/news-story/a130070a98fa251d454dc0b066dea7ca

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20411053 (140801ZFEB24) Notable: ADF Chief Angus Campbell ‘responsible’ for giving accused Fijian torturer Penioni Naliva senior Army command job - The Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell says he is ultimately responsible for the appointment of Fijian Colonel and alleged torturer Penioni (Ben) Naliva as deputy commander of the Australian Army’s 7th Brigade. General Campbell told Senate estimates this morning that Colonel Naliva had not been stood aside, and was “working from home at present and supporting his family in a fairly stressful circumstance”.

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>>130937

ADF Chief Angus Campbell ‘responsible’ for giving accused Fijian torturer Penioni Naliva senior Army command job

BEN PACKHAM - FEBRUARY 14, 2024

The Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell says he is ultimately responsible for the appointment of Fijian Colonel and alleged torturer Penioni (Ben) Naliva as deputy commander of the Australian Army’s 7th Brigade.

General Campbell told Senate estimates this morning that Colonel Naliva had not been stood aside, and was “working from home at present and supporting his family in a fairly stressful circumstance”.

“I’m the accountable officer for all senior appointments, both Australian and embedded officers. And so if you find any fault that is with me, unfortunately,” he said, under questioning from Greens Senator David Shoebridge.

General Campbell said Defence had failed to undertake sufficient checks before appointing Colonel Naliva.

“Unfortunately … the process that we undertook was not as comprehensive as perhaps we all might have preferred.

“But I would note that, absent the thoroughness of that process, we are now in a circumstance where I have directed a review to strengthen the process and also to complete that process.”

General Campbell said Colonel Naliva had been put forward for the role by the government of Fiji, and the appointment was the first under a rotational command arrangement with the Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Tongan defence forces.

He said he had not been aware of any of the allegations against Colonel Naliva in former Fiji prime minister Laisenia Qarase’s book, or those contained in a UN Special Rapporteur’s report.

A Defence official told the committee that the department’s due diligence on Colonel Naliva’s appointment involved an inquiry to the Fiji government, which confirmed he had a police clearance.

Who is Colonel Penioni (Ben) Naliva?

The Australian last month exclusively revealed Colonel Penioni (Ben) Naliva, a senior Fijian military officer allegedly responsible for human rights abuses and torture, had been appointed as deputy commander of the Australian Army’s 7th Brigade, amid claims the Australian government has turned a blind eye in its bid to counter Chinese influence in the Pacific.

What is he accused of?

Colonel Naliva, a one-time right-hand man to former Fiji coup leader and prime minister Frank Bainimarama, is alleged to have been involved in the violent beating of two Fijian politicians, with one victim claiming the soldier tried to force an M16 rifle barrel into his anus during an interrogation.

In another case, the UN Special Rapporteur named then-major Naliva, in a report to the Human Rights Council, as being involved in the savage beating of a Suva businessman that left him unable to walk.

In a third case, a prominent youth activist says Naliva was present when he was detained and tortured in 2006, and did nothing to stop it.

At least two of his alleged ­victims have told The Australian of their horror at learning the man they say tortured them has been appointed by the Australian government to such an esteemed position.

Who approved his appointment?

Several sources in Fiji have speculated to The Australian that Colonel Naliva’s appointment was approved by current prime minister Sitiveni Rabuka because of concern that the soldier – still reputedly a Bainimarama loyalist – was the military officer most able to stage a coup against his already unstable government.

Announcing the appointment on Facebook in late January, the 7th Brigade welcomed Colonel Naliva, posting pictures of its new deputy commander sitting with dozens of Australian soldiers as he “got to meet his new colleagues”.

“This international military partnership has been planned for a long time, and it’s brilliant to see it begin,” the 7th Brigade post said.

Australia has committed to grow its defence and security cooperation with Fiji under the Vuvale Partnership agreement signed last October, with increasing co-deployments between the Australian Defence Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/defence/adf-chief-angus-campbell-responsible-for-giving-accused-fijian-torturer-penioni-naliva-senior-army-command-job/news-story/565d9192ad85568aa9c05c13c37e6a31

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20417014 (150815ZFEB24) Notable: Drop Makarrata Commission to avoid further antagonism, says Ken Wyatt - Former Indigenous Australians minister Ken Wyatt has warned Labor against pursuing a Makarrata Commission to oversee truth telling because this would further “antagonise” Australians and stoke division, following the failure of the voice referendum.

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>>130814

>>130980

Drop Makarrata Commission to avoid further antagonism, says Ken Wyatt

SARAH ISON and PAIGE TAYLOR - FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Former Indigenous Australians minister Ken Wyatt has warned Labor against pursuing a Makarrata Commission to oversee truth telling because this would further “antagonise” Australians and stoke division, following the failure of the voice referendum.

The first federal Aboriginal cabinet minister said embedding truth telling in school curriculums – as Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney suggested on Wednesday – would not work in isolation as a means of helping all citizens understand the nation’s history before and since settlement.

“School curriculums alone will not do it,” Mr Wyatt said.

“I wouldn’t go with a Makarrata Commission, not based on the African model. Because in the face of the No vote you don’t want to antagonise. I think the Prime Minister has lost a lot of kudos and ground on the voice failing. His leadership has to have a question mark over it.”

Mr Wyatt has been a long supporter of the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart’s call for an Indigenous voice enshrined in the Constitution – followed by treaty and truth telling. He quit the Liberal Party over its position on the referendum.

Ms Burney said on Wednesday she was still talking with communities about the outcomes of the referendum and “what the next steps would be”, but would not put a timeline on truth telling and what that could look like.

“I’m having discussions with the cabinet about that … the issue of truth telling is incredibly important,” she told the ABC.

“There are many, many ways in which that can happen including the school curriculum.

“There’s not a particular model that I’m favouring at the moment … I am very open, as the government is very open, to what it might look like.”

The Australian understands there are no discussions between federal and state governments on implementing truth-telling into curriculums, with the national curriculum not due to be reviewed until 2026-27.

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures were already key priorities in the curriculum.

“The Australian curriculum version 9.0 includes a range of ­additional content that recognises the experiences and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” a spokesman said. “The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures cross-curriculum priority aims to deepen all students’ understanding of the histories and cultures of First Nations Australians and their knowledge of important aspects of our national history.”

Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership acting chief executive Edmund Misson pointed to professional standards that required teachers to demonstrate how they promoted reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in the classroom.

Australian Primary Principals’ Association president Angela Falkenberg said enormous strides had been taken in the curriculum over years to embed Indigenous history and culture into teaching and argued truth-telling efforts should be focused on adults.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20417036 (150828ZFEB24) Notable: The faces of a hideous hatred that has no place in our country - A social-justice warrior who urged people to “let Zionists know no f.cking peace”, an artist who called them “genocidal racists”, and a children’s author who praised terrorist organisations are the anti-Israel activists who helped disseminate the details of hundreds of Jewish Australians across the internet. The Australian can reveal that Elsa Tuet-Rosenberg, Zee Mazloum and Matt Chun, whose real name is Matt Jones, were prolific sharers of the leaked personal details of Jewish creatives from a WhatsApp group, which led to Anthony Albanese moving to ban the online form of harassment.

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>>130793

>>130956

>>130975

The faces of a hideous hatred that has no place in our country

These are the anti-Israel activists who helped disseminate the details of hundreds of Jewish Australians in the arts industry across the internet which led to the PM’s move to ban the online form of harassment.

ALEXI DEMETRIADI and JOHN FERGUSON - February 14, 2024

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A social-justice warrior who urged people to “let Zionists know no f..king peace”, an artist who called them “genocidal racists”, and a children’s author who praised terrorist organisations are the anti-Israel activists who helped disseminate the details of hundreds of Jewish ­Australians across the internet.

The Australian can reveal that Elsa Tuet-Rosenberg, Zee Mazloum and Matt Chun – whose real name is Matt Jones – were prolific sharers of the leaked ­personal details of Jewish creatives from a WhatsApp group, which led to Anthony Albanese moving to ban the online form of harassment.

Tuet-Rosenberg shared almost 200 Instagram stories pertaining to the doxxing, while Mazloum and Chun referred to the group’s members and Israel as “genocidal”.

Feminist author Clementine Ford and writer researcher Randa Abdel-Fattah also disseminated a link to the leaked documents and details to their large social media followings.

It has led to the abuse and harassment aimed at the people and businesses outed in the leak, as Jewish leaders welcomed a move by the government to accelerate “anti-doxxing” laws.

It is unclear who within the WhatsApp group leaked the chat, and who specifically uploaded it to a now-defunct web page, although analysis of Tuet-Rosenberg’s, Mazloum’s and Chun’s accounts show a history of anti-Israel sentiment.

Tuet-Rosenberg shared the leaked transcripts and names, professions and photographs regularly from early February, saving each in Instagram story tabs called “Zio Receipts”.

To her 8000 followers, she ­disseminated links to the leaked transcripts and members, which included teachers, librarians and university professionals.

Tuet-Rosenberg is the founder of Hue, a social-justice group that trains people to “challenge systems of oppression”. In 2020, at Melbourne’s Next Wave Festival, she played a character running in the “2050 Australasia Republic election”, lesbian cyborg “Poona”.

She is Jewish.

Tuet-Rosenberg filed the Jewish WhatsApp members into categories like “Artists” and “Sports Zios”, urging her followers to “let these f..king Zionists know no f..king peace”.

“We must be noisy, disruptive and unapologetic,” she wrote in a February 2 Instagram story.

On February 4, she wrote: “Let the outrage you feel at (the Whats­App chat) move you to burn this system and colony”.

She said that “Zimbos” maintained their positions due to other Zionists “in management”, calling them “genocidal fascists” who had moved “too deep into fascism” to reason with.

“Time’s up,” she wrote, referring to the leaked group.

Mazloum started posting transcripts of the leaked group about two weeks ago, also sharing the links across last week.

The stories are saved in a “Local Zios” Instagram tab, where Mazloum identifies the names, pictures and businesses of some of those in the group.

On January 30, Mazloum called Zionists “genocidal racists”, sharing named pictures of what they had determined were “frequent contributors” to the ­WhatsApp group.

“They (the Zionists, WhatsApp members) are plotting, making moves and using their power to dox and damage,” a February 3 Instagram story read.

An account associated with Mazloum’s main profiles sells T-shirts with a link to an “anti-Zio tees” store removed due to “harmful” content.

In one photo, Tuet-Rosenberg and Mazloum pose in the T-shirts, which read “F..K ISRAEL” and “ALL ZIONISTS ARE BASTARDS”. Both were contacted – via their Instagram pages, and available work and personal email address online – but hadn’t responded.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20417056 (150842ZFEB24) Notable: City of Melbourne to debate Israel-Hamas ceasefire motion - Melbourne City Council will vote on a motion calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. Independent councillor Jamal Hakim has proposed the council back a motion asking the federal government to advocate for a list of seven demands. They include a permanent ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages and imprisoned Palestinians, and to advocate for “an end to illegal Israeli settlements and the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories”.

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>>130793

City of Melbourne to debate Israel-Hamas ceasefire motion

Rachael Dexter - February 15, 2024

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Melbourne City Council will vote on a motion calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.

Independent councillor Jamal Hakim has proposed the council back a motion asking the federal government to advocate for a list of seven demands.

They include a permanent ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages and imprisoned Palestinians, and to advocate for “an end to illegal Israeli settlements and the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories”.

The motion will be debated at a council meeting next Tuesday and follows other capital-city councils passing similar motions in Sydney and Hobart. Unlike other councils, the Melbourne motion will not call for the flying of the Palestinian flag at council chambers.

Hakim’s motion calls on the council to acknowledge the distress caused by the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza and recognise the profound impact of recent events including the atrocities committed on October 7, the hostages held in Gaza and in Israel and the continuous bombings in Gaza.

“These experiences are traumatising for many Melbourne residents who have relatives or a connection in the region, or who come from war-torn countries,” the motion states.

Asked why the ceasefire motion was necessary given the federal government already voted in favour of an immediate ceasefire in December, Hakim said the council needed to push the federal government to “go further” considering Israel’s recent advance into the southern city of Rafah. It is considered the last “safe” place in Gaza for civilians, but has been described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the “last bastion” of Hamas.

Gaza health officials said at least 28,500 Palestinians have been killed since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. More than 1400 Israelis have been killed, including about 1200 on October 7, according to Israeli tallies.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the prime ministers of Canada and New Zealand released a joint statement airing their grave concerns about reports of Israel’s military operation in Rafah, warning a military operation into the city would be catastrophic with 1.5 million Palestinians taking refuge there.

Hakim said his council motion was also in response to the thousands of people taking to CBD streets on weekends for pro-Palestine protests, which he had attended multiple times.

“This motion looks different than other local governments. It’s about recognising it from a humanitarian perspective,” he said.

“This escalation in Rafah over the weekend is unjustifiable and getting to the point where the [community] pressure will continue to build and it will be impossible to ignore.”

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20428545 (171114ZFEB24) Notable: Second group of asylum seekers found on property near Beagle Bay in northern Western Australia - A second group of asylum seekers has turned up at a remote outstation north of the Aboriginal community of Beagle Bay where a group of about 30 men was taken into custody by border force authorities on Friday, prompting concerns that more than one asylum boat has landed in the area in recent days and that some arrivals may still be missing or lost.

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>>130985

Second group of asylum seekers found on property near Beagle Bay in northern Western Australia

PAIGE TAYLOR - FEBRUARY 17, 2024

A second group of asylum seekers has turned up at a remote outstation north of the Aboriginal community of Beagle Bay where a group of about 30 men was taken into custody by border force authorities on Friday, prompting concerns that more than one asylum boat has landed in the area in recent days and that some arrivals may still be missing or lost.

The undetected group of 13 men walked into the campsite of Pender Bay on Western Australia’s remote Dampier Peninsula on Friday afternoon. They were bailed up by the owners’ dogs. Pender Bay is about 51km by road north of Beagle Bay where the first group was given shade and water by locals at about 10am on Friday. The second group spent two hours at the camp with its Aboriginal occupants, who tried to calm them and assure them they were safe. WA Police arrived late in the afternoon.

This means the total number of asylum seekers discovered on WA’s north coast on Friday is not approximately 30 as first thought but more than 40.

Like the men found earlier near the old church mission of Beagle Bay, the second group of asylum seekers had cuts and other injuries from scrambling on rocks and walking in mangroves. An Aboriginal man at the camp tended to their wounds and encouraged the men not to go back into the bush, The Australian has learned.

The Australian has confirmed the second group comprised 12 Bangladeshi men and one Indian man. This second group has not been acknowledged publicly by the Australian Border Force, WA Police or the Prime Minsiter. They appeared to have no knowledge of the asylum seekers at Beagle Bay who had been picked up earlier in the day. This has prompted concerns inside Border Force that there may have been more than one asylum boat arrival on the Dampier Peninsula in recent days.

The group of 13 was shown news reports on an iPhone of the group already at Beagle Bay and seemed surprised, The Australian has been told.

They told WA Police they were trying to get to Sydney.

Australian Border Force and WA Police did not provide information when The Australian asked on Friday night if any asylum seekers were believed to be unaccounted for in the areas.

However, The Australian has been told the Border Force operation on the peninsula is ongoing.

The first group of men detected on Friday – the men taken into Beagle Bay in the morning – were Pakistani and Bangladeshi, according to one man in the group who spoke a little English.

The recent deliveries of asylum seekers to the Australian mainland is a concerning development for the Albanese government.

In previous years, smuggling ventures sailed deliberately towards Australian Navy or Border Force vessels or aimed for Christmas Island or Ashmore Reef where they knew they would be intercepted. Australian authorities burned the smuggling boat and took the asylum seekers into detention where they either made claims for asylum or were identified as crew and prosecuted. If the crew were clearly minors, they were usually sent home to Indonesia.

However, in November a people smuggling venture dropped a group of asylum seekers including Pakistanis at a remote stretch of Kimberley coast between Derby and Kununurra and the boat vanished undetected. The arrivals presented themselves at the Truscott air base.

Border Force authorities suspect ventures have become more sophisticated as it has become obvious that people intercepted at sea are swiftly returned to their country of origin. Some do not even make landfall and are taken home to Sri Lanka, Indonesia or Vietnam on ABF vessels.

The group that arrived at Truscott Air Base in November was on the mainland for several days then flown to Nauru.

Police are investigating signs on the Dampier Peninsula of the recent arrivals. They are trying to confirm beyond doubt that everyone is accounted for. So far, they have found plastic bags of clothes near a possible landing site and food wrappers.

This includes opened and emptied packets of Beng Beng, a crispy wafer snack popular in Indonesia and Date Crown dates distributed from the United Arab Emirates.

The arrivals on the Dampier Peninsula are at least the 11th people smuggling venture to sail close to or inside Australian waters since May 2022, the month the Albansese government was elected.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/second-group-of-asylum-seekers-found-on-property-near-beagle-bay-in-northern-western-australia/news-story/0a7b837a30f22d846365ec67334b574b

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20428556 (171120ZFEB24) Notable: WA boat arrivals reignite political contest over border protection - A group of about 30 asylum-seekers from Pakistan and Bangladesh who arrived by boat from Indonesia and wandered through crocodile-inhabited mangroves before being discovered near a remote Indigenous community have reignited the political contest over Australia’s border-protection regime. The group, the second to have reached the Australian mainland since November, was discovered at 10am (AWST) in 32C heat seeking shade in the bushes by a road outside the small town of Beagle Bay, a former church mission with a population of 348. By noon on Friday, three Australian Border Force officials had arrived from Broome, 128km south of the settlement, and were “processing” the arrivals, with Peter Dutton accusing the government of having “lost control of our borders”. The Opposition Leader linked the arrival to Labor’s handling of the High Court’s landmark NZYQ decision in November, declaring that the people-smugglers could “pick out a weak leader, a weak prime minister and a weak minister, and this is what they have done”. “We have warned about this for some time, releasing the 149 criminals, watering down Operation Sovereign Borders - that sends a clear message to the people smugglers,” Mr Dutton said. “I think clearly the government has not taken border protection seriously.”

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>>130985

WA boat arrivals reignite political contest over border protection

JOE KELLY, PAIGE TAYLOR and DIAN SEPTIARI - FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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A group of about 30 asylum-seekers from Pakistan and Bangladesh who arrived by boat from Indonesia and wandered through crocodile-inhabited mangroves before being discovered near a ­remote Indigenous community have reignited the political contest over Australia’s border-­protection regime.

The group – the second to have reached the Australian mainland since November – was discovered at 10am (AWST) in 32C heat ­seeking shade in the bushes by a road outside the small town of Beagle Bay, a former church mission with a population of 348.

By noon on Friday, three Australian Border Force officials had arrived from Broome – 128km south of the settlement – and were “processing” the arrivals, with Peter Dutton accusing the government of having “lost control of our borders”.

The Opposition Leader linked the arrival to Labor’s handling of the High Court’s landmark NZYQ decision in November, ­declaring that the people-­smugglers could “pick out a weak leader, a weak prime minister and a weak minister, and this is what they have done”.

“We have warned about this for some time, releasing the 149 criminals, watering down Operation Sovereign Borders – that sends a clear message to the people smugglers,” Mr Dutton said. “I think clearly the government has not taken border protection seriously.”

The government faces a further legal problem, with a refugee lawyer saying on Friday that a significant portion of the people who remained in long-term detention could be released if the government lost a key case before the High Court.

Residents of Beagle Bay provided the latest boat arrivals with water and took them to shade. One of the arrivals spoke a little English and told the residents the group was from Pakistan.

About eight of the men were exhausted and some were sitting or lying on the ground as nurses from the local clinic dressed their wounds. One of the men spoke limited English and said he was from Bangladesh. He chatted to a local Catholic priest, to nurses and Border Force officials – at one point about cricket – as arrangements were made for the group to be transported to Broome.

When asked where the boat was that had dropped them off, some of the men shook their heads and smiled.

Some had scratches and puncture wounds on their legs and feet from walking through the mangroves and the stretch of coast they traversed is home to many saltwater crocodiles.

There was no sign of a boat near Beagle Bay when the men were found, leading to speculation they were dropped off by Indonesian fishermen. This is how authorities suspect a group of 12 asylum seekers reached the Australian mainland in November. That group was found near the World War II Truscott airfield between Derby and Kununurra and was swiftly taken to Nauru.

Since the election of the ­Abbott government in 2013, it has been highly unusual for either the government or border force authorities to confirm the arrival of asylum seekers.

As immigration minister, Scott Morrison said the government did not discuss “on-water matters” and Labor has adopted this strategy in government. But the latest arrival forced Australian Border Force to issue a rare statement. “The ABF is undertaking an operation in the northwest of Western Australia. As this operation is ongoing, no further information will be provided,” it said.

New Operation Sovereign Borders commander, Brett Sonter, issued a statement on Friday night saying that the agency’s mission remained “the same today as it was when it was established in 2013”.

“Protect Australia’s borders, combat people smuggling in our region, and importantly, prevent people from risking their lives at sea,” Rear Admiral Sonter said.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20434098 (180836ZFEB24) Notable: Doxxers on notice they will face jail time under new laws - Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has signalled new anti-doxxing laws will be aimed at criminalising the disclosure of a broad range of personal information for malicious intent, putting activists and others on notice that they could face jail time for leaking private details without consent. The federal government plans, announced last week in response to the publication of the names and details of hundreds of Jewish creatives and academics by pro-Palestinian activists, has sparked a debate about what constitutes doxxing and how best to use the law to protect individuals’ privacy and safety, while balancing free speech and public interest considerations.

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>>130793

>>130956

>>130975

Doxxers on notice they will face jail time under new laws

Lisa Visentin - February 18, 2024

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Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has signalled new anti-doxxing laws will be aimed at criminalising the disclosure of a broad range of personal information for malicious intent, putting activists and others on notice that they could face jail time for leaking private details without consent.

The federal government plans, announced last week in response to the publication of the names and details of hundreds of Jewish creatives and academics by pro-Palestinian activists, has sparked a debate about what constitutes doxxing and how best to use the law to protect individuals’ privacy and safety, while balancing free speech and public interest considerations.

In an interview elaborating on how the government would approach drafting the laws, Dreyfus said he would undertake a consultation process to ensure the laws were “precise and targeted”, but the offence would be drafted “to capture any publication for malicious purposes of someone’s private or personal information without their consent”.

When pressed on what would constitute “personal information” and whether it would capture identifying details beyond addresses, email and places of work, Dreyfus said, “It could be anything”, and gave the example of publishing a photo of someone’s home.

“Digital technology makes possible a whole lot of bad conduct, and we are racing to have our legal system catch up with all of the things that are now possible or have been made possible by digital technology,” he said.

The government’s doxxing crackdown will occur in a two-pronged way, through civil and criminal laws. That is, as part of a broader package of reforms to the Privacy Act, as well as new offences under the Commonwealth criminal code. Dreyfus confirmed the government would draft the laws to carry a maximum penalty of jail time.

“We think these are serious offences, and should potentially carry a jail sentence,” he said.

“If the perpetrator has intended to interfere with someone’s life and has achieved that purpose, such as the person going into hiding, then that’s something that the court would be likely to take into account in determining penalty.”

Dreyfus has committed to exemptions for public interest journalism, but it is unclear what the scope will be and whether they will extend to self-published or “citizen journalists” or media identities who publish on social media platforms.

The publication of the personal details of 600 Jewish creatives and academics, including social media accounts, professions and businesses and a file of images, was met with considerable public denunciation after it was revealed by The Age last week. The federal opposition was quick to offer broad support to the government’s plans to criminalise doxxing.

Drawn from the leaked transcripts of a private WhatsApp group set up as a support network by Jewish members last year after the October 7 attack, the disseminated list included people who had minimal involvement in the WhatsApp discussion. A number of people whose names were disclosed have since gone public with accounts of being harassed and abused online and over the phone.

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20439323 (190752ZFEB24) Notable: Morrison accuses UN of antisemitism, decries ‘persecution’ of Australian Jews - Former prime minister Scott Morrison has accused the United Nations of antisemitism at a rally in Sydney while warning a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not currently viable. Thousands gathered in The Domain on Sunday for the event organised by a Christian pastor to support members of the Jewish community, under the slogan “Never Again” Is Now. Morrison, who travelled to southern Israel with former British prime minister Boris Johnson in the aftermath of the October 7 terror attacks, told Jewish members of the crowd “we honour you as fellow Australians”.

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>>130793

Morrison accuses UN of antisemitism, decries ‘persecution’ of Australian Jews

Patrick Begley - February 18, 2024

Former prime minister Scott Morrison has accused the United Nations of antisemitism at a rally in Sydney while warning a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not currently viable.

Thousands gathered in The Domain on Sunday for the event organised by a Christian pastor to support members of the Jewish community, under the slogan “Never Again” Is Now.

Morrison, who travelled to southern Israel with former British prime minister Boris Johnson in the aftermath of the October 7 terror attacks, told Jewish members of the crowd “we honour you as fellow Australians”.

“We are deeply sorry,” Morrison said. “Sadly instead of finding consolation, on too many occasions you found isolation, and even abandonment, and even persecution, in this, a free country. Instead of safety you were confronted with threats and even hatred.”

Morrison, who recently announced his retirement from parliament, outlined examples of conduct he labelled antisemitic, including calls for the extinction of the state of Israel “from the river to the sea” and comparing Israeli government policies to those of Nazi Germany.

“Applying double standards by requiring of ... Israel, a behaviour not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation – that is antisemitism,” he said.

“And we have seen that in the United Nations.”

The former Liberal leader did not elaborate on his criticism of the UN but later warned against equating the Hamas terror attacks with Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

The UN’s International Court of Justice ruled last month that Israel must do everything in its power to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians.

Morrison called for a lasting and deep peace that went beyond “the absence of conflict” and spoke in favour of a two-state solution, which drew boos from some in the crowd.

However, he said the violent acts of Hamas “betray a future for the Palestinian people and they condemn any future for a viable Palestinian state”.

“We do need two states that are interested in the development of their own positive society, not the extermination of their neighbours,” he said. “At present, the competence of such a second state, and free state beyond Israel, is not present.”

Liberal MP Julian Leeser said antisemitism was found in far-left politics and that “Greens parliamentarians think Jews have tentacles”, a reference to comments made by NSW Greens MP Jenny Leong.

Leong spoke of the “tentacles” of the “Jewish lobby” at an event in December but has since apologised for the “inappropriate descriptor”.

Senator Jacqui Lambie drew one of the biggest cheers from the crowd when railing against Hamas.

“The only good terrorist is a bloody dead terrorist,” she said.

Pro-Palestine organisers have continued to hold events in Sydney protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza, with another scheduled for next weekend.

https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/morrison-accuses-un-of-antisemitism-decries-persecution-of-australian-jews-20240218-p5f5ul.html

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20477863 (260755ZFEB24) Notable: Video: Anti-Israel rally hears martyrdom glorified on city street - Martyrdom in the name of Palestine was celebrated during a Melbourne CBD street protest where jihad and support for Yemen also was raised, it has been revealed. Covert video shows supporters clapping when a speaker last week warned that the Palestinians would not be defeated, because its people were prepared to die for their cause.

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>>130793

Anti-Israel rally hears martyrdom glorified on city street

JOHN FERGUSON - FEBRUARY 26, 2024

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Martyrdom in the name of Palestine was celebrated during a Melbourne CBD street protest where jihad and support for Yemen also was raised, it has been revealed.

Covert video shows supporters clapping when a speaker last week warned that the Palestinians would not be defeated, because its people were prepared to die for their cause.

In a worrying escalation of rhetoric, the speaker was videoed on Swanston St talking about why Palestinian mothers were worshipped when their sons or daughters were martyred, which is a common Islamic concept in the fight against Israel and in other parts of the Middle East.

With police nearby, the speaker said Palestinian families celebrated the martyrdom, bringing offerings to the mother. “It is great. (When) every single martyr died, they go to their houses with a sweet,’’ he told the gathering. “And they chant to his mother ‘You are very lucky … I wish my mum (is) in your place’.

“How are you going to defeat us when we wish our mothers has (sic) the martyr in their house?’’

About 200 anti-Israel protesters demonstrated outside Melbourne Town Hall on Tuesday, with another speaker mentioning “jihad”, and the chant “Yemen, Yemen, make us proud’’ breaking out. The video – seen by The Australian – is a clear escalation of the rhetoric by the most-outspoken anti-Israel protesters, coming amid increasing concern in the Jewish community that they are being targeted because of the conflict in Gaza, regardless of their personal views.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was one of 200 prominent leaders to attend a function headlined by singer Katy Perry at the home of the billionaire Pratt family at the weekend. The guests were confronted outside by pro-Palestinian protesters, who have increasingly targeted wealthy Jewish-linked businesses – especially families that have supported Israel.

Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich said the rising hostility towards Jewish Australians was “stomach-churning”.

“This outrage, which blows on the embers of hate, violates every value that we hold dear and must be condemned in the strongest possible way by every political and religious leader,’’ he said.

“Australia’s reputation of being a tolerant, inclusive country, safe for the Jewish community, is being torn to shreds. I urge Victoria Police to explore whether they have the power to stop this abomination.’’

In Islam, “martyr” is a term for those who die adhering to a religious command, including jihad. “Martyr” in the Gaza conflict refers to Palestinians killed in the conflict over their land.

This could mean fighters as well as the many civilians who have lost their lives during the Israeli military campaign.

(continued)

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20477871 (260802ZFEB24) Notable: Push to deny visa for Palestinian hijacker who praised Hamas terrorists - A Palestinian activist who hijacked two planes and labelled Hamas operatives responsible for the October 7 attacks “freedom fighters” is facing a push by Jewish groups to deny her an Australian visa. Leila Khaled is billed as the keynote speaker at June’s Ecosocialism event in Perth hosted by the Socialist Alliance and Green Left media outlet, but the Albanese government has given a strong signal it would block any attempt for Khaled to travel here, citing anti-terrorism laws.

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>>130793

Push to deny visa for Palestinian hijacker who praised Hamas terrorists

Paul Sakkal - February 26, 2024

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A Palestinian activist who hijacked two planes and labelled Hamas operatives responsible for the October 7 attacks “freedom fighters” is facing a push by Jewish groups to deny her an Australian visa.

Leila Khaled is billed as the keynote speaker at June’s Ecosocialism event in Perth hosted by the Socialist Alliance and Green Left media outlet, but the Albanese government has given a strong signal it would block any attempt for Khaled to travel here, citing anti-terrorism laws.

The now-elderly figure, who appears holding an AK-47 in famous murals in the West Bank, is a prominent member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a hard-line Marxist group that shocked the world with airline hijackings and bombings in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Khaled helped hijack TWA Flight 840 on its way from Rome to Tel Aviv in 1969, believing Israel’s ambassador to the United States was on board. No one was injured but the hijackers blew up the aircraft’s nose.

A year later, she attempted to hijack El Al Flight 219 from Amsterdam to New York City, threatening with a co-hijacker to detonate grenades if the pilots did not let them into the cockpit before gunshots were fired and the plane was put into a nosedive before landing.

A spokesman for Green Left said the event organisers had not yet applied for an Australian visa but were in talks about bringing Khaled to Australia. She would speak virtually if travel to Australia was not possible, the spokesman said.

The Executive Council of Australian Jewry on Monday wrote to Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus urging him to block any visa application.

“She was the first woman to hijack an airplane. She remains a member of the national committee of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), an organisation which is listed under Australian sanctions laws,” the letter from Peter Wertheim and Alex Ryvchin states.

“Given her criminal background and current associations, her appearance, actual or virtual, would be likely to have the effect of inciting, promoting or advocating terrorism to an Australian audience, to aggravate current social divisions and thus cause damage to social cohesion.”

A government spokeswoman said it was aware of the case and said the laws against advocating terrorism could apply even if an individual appeared online rather than in person. They also noted laws passed last month that made it a criminal offence to glorify terrorism.

“The Migration Act is clear. All people applying for visas, no matter where they’re from, are required to undergo security checks – as has been the case under all governments. The government is unable to comment on individual cases.”

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Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20477879 (260808ZFEB24) Notable: Labor told to block pro-Palestinian plane hijacker from socialist conference - Prominent Jewish leaders are urging senior cabinet ministers in the Albanese government to intervene to prevent a pro-Palestinian militant who took part in two plane hijackings from appearing at a socialist conference scheduled to be held in Perth this year. In a letter addressed to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry urged the government to deny Leila Khaled an Australian visa warning she must not be allowed to travel to Australia or appear virtually at the event.

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>>130793

>>130991

Labor told to block pro-Palestinian plane hijacker from socialist conference

JESS MALCOLM - FEBRUARY 26, 2024

Prominent Jewish leaders are urging senior cabinet ministers in the Albanese government to intervene to prevent a pro-Palestinian militant who took part in two plane hijackings from appearing at a socialist conference scheduled to be held in Perth this year.

In a letter addressed to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry urged the government to deny Leila Khaled an Australian visa warning she must not be allowed to travel to Australia or appear virtually at the event.

The event is being organised by Green Left and are billing the conference, Ecosocialism 2024, as an “invaluable opportunity to share experiences in building struggles with activists from around the Indian Ocean”.

According to the event’s website, attendees are encouraged to “discuss how we can collectively campaign against war and climate catastrophe”.

Ms Khaled has been promoted by event organisers as a “iconic Palestinian revolutionary activist” and a “national committee member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a socialist organisation that advocates for the creation of a democratic, secular Palestine.”

However, Ms Khaled has been involved in a series of plane hijackings including a 1969 flight from Rome to Tel Aviv which was believed to be carrying Yitzhak Rabin, then Israeli ambassador to the US.

No one was killed but two hostages were held for at least two months.

Ms Khaled was then involved in the Dawson’s Field hijackings the following year, which targeted four planes bound for New York City and one for London.

In an interview with Green Left last week, Ms Khaled said Hamas terrorists responsible for the October 7 attacks on Israel were “freedom fighters” who had a right to defend themselves “from occupation and the siege of Gaza”.

The letter, co-signed by president Daniel Aghion, Peter Wertheim and Alex Ryvchin, argues Ms Khaled should not pass the character test given she “remains a member of the national committee of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), an organisation which is listed under Australian sanctions laws,”

“It is reasonable to suspect that she does not pass the character test, as defined in ss. 501(6), and that refusing her a visa would be in the national interest,” they wrote.

A government spokeswoman said Labor was aware of the case and noted that anti-terrorism laws still applied even if a person appeared online rather than in person in Australia. The spokeswoman also made reference to recent laws passed last month which made glorifying or praising acts of terrorism a criminal offence.

The Jewish leaders have also called for Ms Khaled to be blocked from appearing virtually warning it would be damaging for social cohesion.

“Given her criminal background and current associations, her appearance, actual or virtual, would be likely to have the effect of inciting, promoting or advocating terrorism to an Australian audience, to aggravate current social divisions and thus cause damage to social cohesion,” they wrote.

The Coalition has urged Labor to immediately rule out granting Ms Khaled a visa amid concern she is a prominent member of a terrorist organisation.

Opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson said Ms Khaled should not be able to set foot on Australian soil under any circumstances.

“Leila Khaled was convicted and jailed for a hijacking a plane and is a prominent member of a terrorist organisation,” Senator Paterson said.

“Under no circumstances should she be allowed to set foot on Australian soil. The Albanese government must rule out granting her a visa today.”

Ms Khaled, who is 79 years old, was refused entry to Rome and was forced to return to Amman, Jordan given she was a member of a group considered terrorist by the Italian government.

The Australian has requested comment from Mr Dreyfus, Ms O’Neil and Mr Giles.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/labor-told-to-block-propalestinian-plane-hijacker-from-socialist-conference/news-story/1c2d3c94218fb804a6b6589d8292557b

https://ecosocialism.org.au/

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20488529 (280816ZFEB24) Notable: Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman describes Hamas’s October 7 attack as ‘legitimate resistance’ - Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman has failed to condemn the October 7 massacre of 1200 Israelis by Hamas, and instead says it is “absolutely legitimate” for Palestinians to “resist” on that day. The Muslim community leader appeared on Radio National Breakfast to describe the actions of the October 7 terrorist attacks as legitimate. “It is absolutely legitimate for the Palestinians to try to break the siege of Gaza,” Mr Salman said. “I’m not going to condemn the Palestinians for resisting. I’m not going to condemn Palestinians for trying to break their siege on their territory.”

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>>130793

Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman describes Hamas’s October 7 attack as ‘legitimate resistance’

TRICIA RIVERA - FEBRUARY 28, 2024

Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman has failed to condemn the October 7 massacre of 1200 Israelis by Hamas, and instead says it is “absolutely legitimate” for Palestinians to “resist” on that day.

The Muslim community leader appeared on Radio National Breakfast on Wednesday morning to describe the actions of the October 7 terrorist attacks as legitimate.

“It is absolutely legitimate for the Palestinians to try to break the siege of Gaza,” Mr Salman said.

“I’m not going to condemn the Palestinians for resisting. I’m not going to condemn Palestinians for trying to break their siege on their territory.”

As well as the deaths by stabbing, shooting and burning, 253 Israelis were taken hostage on October 7, with 134 still in captivity.

After his answer, program host Patricia Karvelas went on to clarify the Islamic Council president's answer: “Sorry, I just want to be clear, October 7th, you’re saying you won’t denounce that?”

“We denounce any violence and killing of civilians. What we don’t denounce very clearly is legitimate acts of resistance,” Mr Salman answered.

“And for the Palestinians to rise up on October 7, and say, we’re no longer going to tolerate this siege, this occupation, that’s legitimate.”

Mr Salman used his radio appearance to confirm he had written to Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to cancel the annual Iftar dinner next month over the trauma the community feel over Gaza.

He said he wished the Australian government would take a firmer stance than calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, and that they should take a similar approach to the Russian regime over its invasion of Ukraine.

Karvelas pushed back, saying the Russia-Ukraine war was not the same as the Israel-Hamas conflict.

“No question that the October 7 attacks have led to that response from Israel, but our point is that what has happened since October 7, and that continues until today is a humanitarian catastrophe. And Australia needs to actually take meaningful steps to actually prevent that,” Mr Salman said.

“And I think what we’re hearing from the International Court of Justice and other bodies is that Israel is actually committing a genocide or is at risk of committing a genocide.”

Mr Salman also appeared to dispute the number of civilian casualties as a result of the conflict, but failed to quote his sources.

“There are some people actually contesting exactly how many were killed and how they were killed. But in any case, clearly civilians were killed. And as a result, we’re saying that people who’ve committed those, those actions should be held to account. But you can’t condemn the Palestinians for actually resisting their occupation. I think that’s a very fair position.”

Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin criticised Mr Salman over the comments, and accused him of demonstrating the “sick and depraved mindset of pro-Palestinian activists”.

“To defend mass slaughter, abduction, rape of young girls at gun point as their families were forced to watch, the carnage at a dance festival, as resistance takes a level of sadism that is difficult to comprehend,” he said.

“The events of October 7 served no military or political purpose beyond violating large numbers of people in the most brutal ways imaginable. It has also directly resulted in a war that has caused great suffering on the Palestinian side.

“But Mr Salman is so convinced that dead and abducted Israelis advances the Palestinian cause that he is unable to see the misery Hamas has inflicted on both sides.”

Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich also questioned how the attacks could be justified.

“Adel Salman has shown his true colours and has let down anyone who believes in compassion and humanity,” he said.

“As someone who lost a relative in a terrorist attack in Israel and whose family hid in a safe room while the Hamas monsters killed and kidnapped their neighbours, I am sickened by his statement and refusal to denounce Hamas.”

He said the comments would shock the conscious of Australians and that leaders need to fight against antisemitism and hatred.

“One thing (is) for sure: Hamas is applauding him for carrying their torch of propaganda and lies.”

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/islamic-council-of-victoria-president-adel-salman-fails-to-condemn-october-7-massacre/news-story/4ac5bda7f0a0c816574fb9830e00790a

Originally posted at >>>/qresearch/20525168 (060739ZMAR24) Notable: Allegra Spender ‘uninvited’ from Jewish event over UNRWA split - Teal MP Allegra Spender has had her invitation to speak at a Jewish charity event cancelled, after she pushed for funding to be restored to the UN agency in Gaza despite its links to Hamas. Ms Spender had been scheduled to speak at the 25th anniversary of Jewish non-profit B’nai B’rith’s Courage to Care initiative next week, with the community organisation telling supporters that a “mutual agreement” had been reached that she would withdraw.

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Allegra Spender ‘uninvited’ from Jewish event over UNRWA split

RHIANNON DOWN - MARCH 6, 2024

Teal MP Allegra Spender has had her invitation to speak at a Jewish charity event cancelled, after she pushed for funding to be restored to the UN agency in Gaza despite its links to Hamas.

Ms Spender had been scheduled to speak at the 25th anniversary of Jewish non-profit B’nai B’rith’s Courage to Care initiative next week, with the community organisation telling supporters that a “mutual agreement” had been reached that she would withdraw.

Courage to Care NSW cites Ms Spender’s decision to sign a joint letter with fellow Teal MPs calling on Foreign Minister Penny Wong to explore other means of directing aid to Gaza be found or else funding to the UN ­Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees be restored.

“In light of recent events, it has been mutually agreed that it would be in the best interests of our organisation and the event if she was to withdraw,” Courage to Care said in a letter to attendees.

“The recent event we refer to was a letter to Foreign Minister Penny Wong MP signed by Teal and independent MPs, including Ms Spender, which requested that a means of funding humanitarian aid to Gazans be found, including potentially UNRWA.”

The letter said Ms Spender’s presence would be “distracting from the important achievements and mission of Courage to Care NSW”.

Ms Spender, whose electorate of Wentworth has the largest proportion of Jewish constituents in the country, said no one wanted to see “desperate civilians left without food, water and medical support” and she had signed the letter to ensure that humanitarian aid reached those in need.

“The allegations against some UNRWA staff are very serious, but humanitarian aid is critical right now, and we need to find options for delivery of aid, either through other organisations if they have the infrastructure, or through UNRWA under clear conditions,” she said.

“Given strong feelings by some in the community about UNRWA, Courage for Care and I agreed that my presence would be distracting and I do not want this issue to distract from the vital fundraising efforts of Courage to Care.”

Ms Spender added she would continue to “stand up for the Jewish community” and was advocating for greater protection from anti-Semitism on university campuses.

The letter to Senator Wong called for an alternative to deliver aid be found or “the government provides immediate clear directions as to what actions UNRWA can feasibly take in order that funding can be restored before we bear witness to a humanitarian collapse in Gaza”.

It was also signed by Teal MPs Zoe Daniel, Kate Chaney, Monique Ryan, Zali Steggall, Sophie Scamps and Kylea Tink, as well as independent MPs Andrew Wilkie and Helen Haines.

Israel has accused UNRWA of employing militants who took part in Hamas’ attack on October 7 and alleged it has found Hamas’ communications centre and intelligence hub under the agency’s Gaza headquarters.

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/allegra-spender-uninvited-from-jewish-event-over-unrwa-split/news-story/5c09ea71608c4a317e881f4314ce1c70