Australia 'outraged' as Israel declines to investigate killing of aid worker Zomi Frankcom
Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong called Israel's decision not to pursue a criminal investigation into the 2024 strike that killed aid worker Zomi Frankcom inadequate and will summon Israel's ambassador. Opposition figures and the Greens are demanding a stronger response, including sanctions.
The Australian government has expressed outrage after the Israel Defense Forces decided not to launch a criminal investigation into a 2024 strike on an aid convoy in Gaza that killed seven people, including Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom of World Central Kitchen.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said in a statement that the decision falls "far short of the accountability we expect." She will summon Israel's ambassador to Australia, Hillel Newman, and has directed Australia's ambassador to Israel, Neil Hawkins, to convey the government's views directly. Wong noted the government learned of the decision late the previous night, just before it was announced on World Humanitarian Day, which she called especially insulting.
Wong said the decision not to pursue further investigation came despite the IDF's own admissions that the strikes resulted from serious procedural failures, mistaken identification and decision-making errors — findings confirmed by a report from special adviser Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin.
Political reaction
Greens leader Larissa Waters called for the government to move beyond statements, urging sanctions against Israel, an end to arms-related trade, and consideration of expelling Israel's ambassador. Emergency Services Minister Kristy McBain said she was deeply disappointed, noting Frankcom's earlier contribution supporting communities affected by the 2019 Black Summer bushfires. Opposition shadow defence spokesperson James Paterson voiced concern but said he wanted a full briefing before drawing conclusions.
The dispute unfolded during a busy day in Australian politics, which also saw gambling reform legislation pass and debate over veterans' healthcare access.
