Australia summons Israeli ambassador over World Central Kitchen case

Australia’s foreign ministry summoned the Israeli ambassador on Monday to express strong displeasure after Israel announced it would not initiate criminal proceedings related to alleged violations of international law. The diplomatic protest follows a request from the Australian government for Israel to investigate incidents that may constitute war crimes, prompting the ambassador’s meeting with senior officials in Canberra.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the decision undermines accountability and the rule of law, urging Israel to reconsider its stance and cooperate with any independent inquiries. Israel’s legal counsel reiterated that existing investigations are ongoing and that the matter is being handled within its judicial system. Both governments indicated that dialogue will continue, with Australia monitoring the situation closely and assessing further diplomatic options.