Mehreen Faruqi

Centrism isn't the answer to a rising far-right. Centrism is worse than a dead end. Walking the middle road is what got us in this mess in the first place. Ordinary people disillusioned with politics are looking for something bold and audacious that makes their lives better.

Let’s be clear about what’s happening here. Ordinary people from around the world, including 14 brave Australians, who have seen Israel’s ongoing genocide and atrocities, are on a peaceful, lawful mission to deliver desperately needed aid to Palestinians.

Let's not forget why the Strait of Hormuz is closed. It was open until the US and Israel decided to bomb Iran. If PM Albanese could be courageous and fast track Australia to renewable energy instead of doubling down on the very fossil fuel dependence that leaves us exposed to global instability.

If the National Press Club is serious about its commitment to press freedom and integrity, it must withdraw the invitation to the Israeli ambassador. If Australia is serious about protecting human rights, we must expel the Israeli ambassador.

Today, I moved an amendment that would remove tax benefits from donations to orgs who support illegal occupation, but the Labor gov voted it down. Another example of their complicity in the ethnic cleansing of Palestine. You can’t claim to support a Palestinian state while funding its destruction.

This morning the Labor Government couldn’t even bring themselves to support a motion that condemns Islamophobia and calls for action. Instead, they shut down debate while whitesplaining a Muslim woman and attacking the Greens.