SUPRA Council supports the international call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unobstructed delivery of humanitarian aid to people in Gaza. We condemn all acts of violence that affect civilian life, including the 7 October attack, and the ongoing aerial bombardment and land invasion of Gaza by Israel. To date, over 10,000 people have been killed in Gaza – 4100 of these have been children. We call for the immediate release of all civilian hostages.

SUPRA calls on the international community and the Australian Government to ensure the right of Palestinian people to self-determination. In keeping with the UN General Assembly’s resolution on 26 October 2023, we call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and for the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, including food, water and fuel. We call for the reconnection of water and electricity, and unhampered internet and phone access. Also, in keeping with this resolution, we call on the Israeli government to cease all illegal settlements, raids, and arrests in the Occupied West Bank and Jerusalem. SUPRA condemns the bombardment of UNESCO-listed world heritage sites, and of Al-Azhar University and the Islamic University of Gaza (IUG).

We call for a rejection of Israel’s enforcement of an apartheid state throughout the 74-year occupation of Palestine. This occupation has included the forced displacement of Palestinian communities, aerial bombardments, seizures of land in violation of the UN Security Council’s resolutions, arbitrary detention of Palestinian prisoners, and severely restricted movement for all Palestinians. Palestine must be free to determine its own future.

SUPRA sends our deepest condolences to all those harmed by the ongoing violence in Gaza. Our hearts go out to the members of our university community, their families and friends who have been impacted by this conflict. During this time SUPRA emphasises the need for free and respectful dialogue, and rejects all commentary that supports antisemitism or anti-Muslim hate.

If you need assistance during this time, SUPRA provides free, professional and confidential advice and advocacy through our casework and legal services to all postgraduate students.

Weihong Liang
SUPRA President