Human rights groups call on Australia to drop pursuit of Israel trade deal over Palestine conflict

Morrison government told it must not neglect major human rights concerns' as it considers increasing trade with Israel

Australian and Palestinian human rights groups have urged the federal government to stop pursuing a potential free trade agreement with Israel and condemn its actions in Gaza and East Jerusalem.

The Australian government is considering strengthening its trade relations with Israel, including through a possible FTA, hoping such a deal would boost defence, cybersecurity and innovation.