AFP investigates Lidia Thorpe’s claim she would ‘burn down’ Parliament House

The GuardianMonday, October 13, 2025 at 5:55:32 AM
AFP investigates Lidia Thorpe’s claim she would ‘burn down’ Parliament House
Senator Lidia Thorpe has clarified her recent comments made at a pro-Gaza rally in Melbourne, stating that her remark about burning down Parliament House was intended as a metaphor. She described the backlash as 'mock outrage' that diverts attention from the real suffering of Palestinians. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding political discourse in Australia and raises questions about freedom of speech and the interpretation of political statements.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Labor’s watered-down super tax plan creates a fairer system – but it’s far from as fair as it should be
NeutralWorld Affairs
Labor's revised superannuation tax plan, as explained by Jim Chalmers, aims to create a fairer system while still generating substantial revenue, albeit less than previous proposals. This adjustment is significant as it reflects the government's attempt to balance fiscal responsibility with equity in the superannuation sector, impacting many Australians' retirement savings. While the changes are a step towards fairness, they also highlight ongoing debates about the adequacy of the system.
Starmer arrives in Egypt ahead of summit on Gaza plan
NeutralWorld Affairs
Keir Starmer has arrived in Egypt ahead of a significant summit on the Gaza plan, which will be led by President Trump. This meeting is crucial as it aims to finalize an agreement that could impact the ongoing situation in Gaza. The outcome of this summit may influence international relations and humanitarian efforts in the region.
Trump says Gaza war is over, praises Qatar’s role in peace deal
PositiveWorld Affairs
In a significant announcement while traveling to Israel, President Donald Trump declared that the Gaza war has concluded, attributing this positive development to Qatar's pivotal role in facilitating the peace deal. This statement not only reflects a hopeful turn in the ongoing conflict but also highlights Qatar's emerging influence in Middle Eastern diplomacy, which could pave the way for further negotiations and stability in the region.
MPs highlight plight of Gaza students unable to come to UK with children
NegativeWorld Affairs
A group of over 100 MPs in the UK has raised concerns about Palestinian students who are unable to accept scholarships at British universities due to restrictions preventing them from bringing their children. This situation highlights the challenges faced by these scholars, as nearly 60 have already been evacuated from Gaza, but many more remain unable to pursue their education. The issue underscores the broader humanitarian crisis in the region and the need for policies that support families in crisis.
University of Sydney argues academic’s article not racist against Jewish people as ‘Zionism is a political concept’
NeutralWorld Affairs
The University of Sydney is defending an academic's article against accusations of being racist towards Jewish people, arguing that 'Zionism is a political concept.' This case is significant as it represents a major test for hate speech laws in Australia, highlighting the ongoing debate about free speech and academic freedom in the context of political discourse. The outcome could have implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.
In a major milestone, Hamas begins releasing final Israeli hostages
PositiveWorld Affairs
Hamas has started releasing the last of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza, marking a significant step towards resolving the two-year conflict in the region. This development is crucial as it not only brings hope for the families of the hostages but also signals potential progress in peace efforts, which have been desperately needed in the area.
While the perpetrators of Gaza’s genocide pose as its saviours, survivors return home – to a wasteland | Nesrine Malik
NegativeWorld Affairs
The recent Sharm el-Sheikh summit, attended by global leaders including Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron, has been criticized for enabling the ongoing violence in Gaza rather than fostering peace. As survivors return to their homes, they find devastation instead of hope, highlighting the urgent need for genuine support and action towards a sustainable Palestinian future. This situation matters because it underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and the dire humanitarian crisis faced by those in conflict zones.
Labor scraps key elements of controversial superannuation tax plan as Greens call move ‘gift to the super-rich’
NegativeWorld Affairs
In a significant policy reversal, Jim Chalmers has announced that the Labor government will scrap key elements of its controversial superannuation tax plan, which aimed to tax unrealised gains on super balances exceeding $3 million. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from the Greens, who label it a 'gift to the super-rich.' The move is crucial as it reflects the ongoing tensions in Australian politics regarding wealth distribution and taxation, raising questions about the government's commitment to addressing inequality.
Israel and Hamas to begin hostage-prisoner exchange: Live Updates
PositiveWorld Affairs
A significant development is unfolding as Israel and Hamas prepare to initiate a hostage-prisoner exchange, facilitated by a US-brokered agreement. This exchange comes amid a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting a potential step towards easing tensions in the region. Such exchanges are crucial as they not only bring relief to families affected by the conflict but also open avenues for dialogue and peace, making this a noteworthy moment in the ongoing situation.
The Palestinian and Israeli kids trying to be friends – podcast
PositiveWorld Affairs
A unique peace camp in Cyprus is fostering friendships between Palestinian and Israeli children affected by conflict. Organized by the Parents Circle Families Forum, this initiative not only provides a safe space for these kids to connect but also promotes understanding and healing in a region marked by division. The camp's significance lies in its potential to break down barriers and build a foundation for future peace, showing that even in challenging circumstances, hope and friendship can flourish.
Pat Cummins concedes he is ‘weeks away’ from bowling and unlikely to play in first Ashes Test
NegativeWorld Affairs
Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins has revealed that he is unlikely to participate in the first Ashes Test against England, scheduled for November 21 in Perth. He mentioned that he is 'less likely than likely' to be fit for the match, as he is still weeks away from returning to full bowling. This news is significant as Cummins' absence could impact Australia's chances in the prestigious series, highlighting the challenges teams face with player fitness.
Who are the 20 Gaza hostages believed to be alive and expected to be released?
PositiveWorld Affairs
After enduring over two years in captivity, 20 hostages taken during the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, are expected to return to Israel. This development is significant as it brings hope to the families of the hostages and highlights ongoing efforts to resolve the situation in Gaza. The anticipated release marks a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict and raises questions about future negotiations.
Latest from World Affairs
Israeli hostage release: Netanyahu welcomes Trump with second group of hostages expected to be released shortly – live updates
PositiveWorld Affairs
In a significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu welcomed U.S. President Trump at Ben Gurion airport as the Red Cross prepares to collect a second group of hostages. This follows the release of the first seven of twenty Israeli hostages held by Hamas for over 780 days. The ongoing negotiations and releases are crucial as they highlight efforts to resolve the humanitarian crisis and bring families back together, fostering hope for a peaceful resolution.
Labor’s watered-down super tax plan creates a fairer system – but it’s far from as fair as it should be
NeutralWorld Affairs
Labor's revised superannuation tax plan, as explained by Jim Chalmers, aims to create a fairer system while still generating substantial revenue, albeit less than previous proposals. This adjustment is significant as it reflects the government's attempt to balance fiscal responsibility with equity in the superannuation sector, impacting many Australians' retirement savings. While the changes are a step towards fairness, they also highlight ongoing debates about the adequacy of the system.
French political crisis continues as Lecornu unveils new government – Europe live
NegativeWorld Affairs
France is facing a significant political crisis as Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has just unveiled a new government, following his recent reappointment. Marine Le Pen is pushing for a no-confidence motion and calling for President Macron to dissolve the National Assembly. This situation is crucial as it reflects the ongoing instability in French politics and could lead to major changes in governance, impacting both domestic policies and France's role in Europe.
Starmer arrives in Egypt ahead of summit on Gaza plan
NeutralWorld Affairs
Keir Starmer has arrived in Egypt for an important summit focused on the Gaza plan, which will be led by President Trump. This meeting is significant as it aims to finalize an agreement that could impact the ongoing situation in Gaza. The involvement of high-profile leaders highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Has Drake Maye ended the Patriots’ painful Tom Brady hangover?
PositiveWorld Affairs
The New England Patriots seem to have finally found their star quarterback in Drake Maye, ending a challenging five-year search since Tom Brady's departure. While other franchises like the Browns, Jets, and Bears have struggled for decades to secure a reliable quarterback, the Patriots' quick turnaround is a testament to their resilience and strategic choices. This development not only revitalizes the team's prospects but also reignites hope among fans who have longed for a return to glory.
Trump says Gaza war is over, praises Qatar’s role in peace deal
PositiveWorld Affairs
In a significant announcement while traveling to Israel, President Donald Trump declared that the Gaza war has concluded, attributing this positive development to Qatar's pivotal role in facilitating the peace deal. This statement not only reflects a hopeful turn in the ongoing conflict but also highlights Qatar's emerging influence in Middle Eastern diplomacy, which could pave the way for further negotiations and stability in the region.