Penny Wong affirms ‘solidarity’ with Israel as she meets with Hamas hostage relatives

Foreign affairs minister uses meeting with Israeli counterpart and president to say Australians also have strong concerns about the civilian death toll' in Gaza

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates

• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

The Australian foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, has met with Israeli relatives of hostages held by Hamas and assured them that she will continue to use Australia's voice to call for the immediate, unconditional and safe return of all hostages.

Wong arrived in Israel late on Tuesday for a series of meetings, including with the Israeli foreign affairs minister, Israel Katz, and the Israeli president, Isaac Herzog.

Sign up for Guardian Australia's free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup