We the undersigned respectfully petition Gold Coast City Council to withdraw its Sister City relationship with Netanya, Israel, until such time as the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) implements a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and Israel abides by international humanitarian law.

Israel's war on Gaza has resulted in the deaths of more than 25,000 people — mostly women and children — and the displacement of more than 1.5 million people, since October 7, 2023.

Tens of thousands of Gazans are at risk of death by starvation, dehydration and disease due to the war and Israel's actions in bombing hospitals and blocking urgent humanitarian aid from entering Gaza.

Palestinians in Gaza are being subjected to collective punishment by the Israeli Defence Forces for the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israeli citizens. 

What is at stake?

In July 1987, Gold Coast Mayor Dennis Pie signed a Sister City agreement between the Gold Coast and the city of Netanya in Israel. Netanya is located on the coast, 100 km to the north of Gaza.

This relationship can not continue while Israel continues bombing Gaza and refuses to abide by international law.

Why act now?

By acting now, Gold Coast City Council will send a strong message to Israel to respect human rights and join the growing number of local councils in Australia and around the world in supporting an immediate, permanent ceasefire and an end to the war on Gaza.