Australian Greens Elect Larissa Waters, Maintain Senate Balance Amid Lower House Losses

Germany's Green Party has strongly condemned Israel's military offensive in Gaza, criticizing the blockade on aid deliveries and calling for adherence to international humanitarian law. Meanwhile, in Australia, the Greens under new leader Larissa Waters maintain their commitment to addressing social justice issues, including the situation in Gaza, alongside their environmental agenda despite losing seats in the recent federal election. Waters and deputy leader Mehreen Faruqi emphasize that social justice and environmental concerns are interconnected and reject accusations of antisemitism tied to their stance on Gaza. Commentary suggests media portrayal and targeted political advertising influenced public perception of the Greens' position on Gaza, contributing to electoral losses, although their national vote share remained steady. Environmental groups welcome the Greens' intention to refocus on climate and nature protection while continuing to advocate for social justice. The Greens assert they will persist in calling out atrocities and supporting humanitarian needs without retreating from their multifaceted platform.