Penny Wong’s ceasefire call condemned by Jewish organisations

Leading Jewish organisations have condemned Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s calls for steps toward a ceasefire in the Middle East.

It follows the biggest pro-Palestine protest Australia has seen over the weekend, with around 50,000 people taking to the streets of Sydney.

Jewish organisations say the only way for peace for the Palestinian people is through the eradication of Hamas from the Gaza Strip.

Israel Defence Force Colonel Peter Lerner said the IDF has no choice but to “take the war to Hamas” after the terrorist group captured at least 200 civilians as hostages.

“There are still 239 Israelis being held hostage by Hamas on this day, 37 of the war,” Mr Lerner told Sky News Australia.

“Basically we are left currently without a choice; we have to take the war to Hamas.”