The Australian government has confirmed it will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly next month. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that a two-state solution is “humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza.” This move aligns Australia with other nations, including France, Canada, and the United Kingdom, which have made similar declarations in recent weeks.
Albanese emphasized that the recognition is predicated on commitments received from the Palestinian Authority, including a demilitarized Palestine, recognizing Israel’s right to exist in peace and security, and no role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state. The prime minister also highlighted the need for Israeli hostages to be released. Foreign Minister Penny Wong added that practical steps, such as an Australian embassy presence or conferring full embassy status to the Palestinian delegation to Australia, would be tied to commitments from the Palestinian Authority.
The decision has drawn criticism from Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who branded Australia and European nations “shameful” for considering recognizing a Palestinian state. Netanyahu’s government has been facing growing disapproval over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where more than 60,000 civilians have been killed during Israel’s bombing campaign. Wong urged Israel not to follow through on its plans to occupy Gaza, claiming it could constitute a breach of international law.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) called the government’s decision a “betrayal” and a “disappointment”. Coalition defence spokesperson Angus Taylor claimed the decision was “premature,” arguing it would reward Hamas. However, Labor Friends of Palestine, an internal rank-and-file membership group, welcomed the move, saying it “delivers on policy long supported by Labor members”.
Albanese said the recognition move is a “practical contribution towards building momentum” for a two-state solution. Wong conceded there was “much more work to do in building a Palestinian state” and that Australia would help build the capacity of the Palestinian Authority and hold it to its commitments. The Australian government’s decision marks a significant shift in its stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with potential implications for the region and Australia’s relationships with key allies.