Politics · Australia · 10 hrs ago
Readers debate free speech, Israel-Gaza and One Nation
Readers raised three separate political debates in letters published in an Australian newspaper.
One writer said free speech should not protect speech that urges violence or attacks people based on identity.
Another argued that offensive political comments should not be treated as bigotry requiring legal protection.
The letters also sharply disagreed over Israel’s actions in Gaza, with one writer rejecting the term genocide and another letter criticising a Gaza journalist’s views.
A further letter warned that concerns raised by a One Nation insider about the party’s leadership and candidates should be taken seriously.
Together, the letters show conflicting views on civil liberties, the Israel-Gaza war and the conduct of a political party.
The letters do not describe any decisions or next steps on these issues.
Letters published by the SMH discuss free speech, Israel-Gaza and One Nation.
Some writers argue that free speech should be limited when it incites violence or enables bigoted personal attacks.
Other letters dispute descriptions of Israel’s actions in Gaza and criticize One Nation’s leadership and competence.
The writers refer to comments by George Brandis, Plestia Alaqad and One Nation figures.
- Who
- SMH letter writers, including Vic Alhadeff, June Simpson and Shane Shmuel.
- What
- Readers debate free speech, Israel-Gaza and concerns about One Nation.
- When
- The letters were published on November 8, 2026.
- Where
- The letters appeared in the SMH. The writers are identified with Australian locations.
- Why
- The writers respond to recent articles and express views on their subjects.
Free speech with fewer restrictions
Free speech with limits on incitement and bigoted attacks
Limits on speech
Free speech with fewer restrictions
Brandis defends the right to be a bigot, according to Alhadeff and Simpson.
Free speech with limits on incitement and bigoted attacks
Alhadeff argues speech that urges violence should be restrained, while Simpson says free speech does not include bigoted personal attacks.
Israel’s actions in Gaza
Free speech with fewer restrictions
The letter’s account of Israel’s actions
Free speech with limits on incitement and bigoted attacks
Alaqad’s position as described in the letter
Characterization of the war
Free speech with fewer restrictions
Shmuel says it is a war, not genocide, and cites warnings and aid to civilians.
Free speech with limits on incitement and bigoted attacks
Shmuel says Alaqad repeats the claim that Israel is committing genocide and objects to her refusal to appear on panels with Israel’s supporters.
The article’s caption says Senator Hanson wore a burqa into the Senate.
The letters refer to articles published under that date.
The SMH published the letters.
- Outlet
- SMH
- Publication date
- November 8, 2026
- Letter writers
- Vic Alhadeff; Darlinghurst
- Letter writers
- June Simpson; Petersham
- Letter writers
- Shane Shmuel; Elsternwick, Victoria
What people are saying
Everything begins with words, and that includes violence.
The right to feel safe from racist, sexist or other bigoted attack is surely a hallmark of a civilised society.
It’s a war, not a genocide.