Australia expresses concern over Israeli Embassy attack

Media release: Dr Craig Emerson, Minister for Trade and Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs

13 September 2011

The Australian Government is deeply concerned by the attack on the Israeli Embassy in Cairo on the weekend and the reported deaths of three people during associated clashes outside the Embassy.

"Australia welcomed the actions of Egyptian security forces in moving to safety all Israeli staff inside the Israeli Embassy at the time," Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs Craig Emerson said.

The Australian Government also welcomed statements by Israel and Egypt reaffirming their commitment to the Israel-Egypt peace treaty of 1979.

As Prime Minister Netanyahu said in response to recent events, peace is in the interests of both countries.

It is crucial that diplomatic staff and premises be protected wherever they are, consistent with the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic Relations.

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