CANBERRA, Australia (Time.news) – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated Australia will only recognize a Palestinian state once conditions ensuring lasting security for Israel are met, aligning with demands for Palestinian demilitarization and reforms.
Australia’s stance mirrors that of Canada, which, along with France and the United Kingdom, signaled intent to recognize Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September. Albanese emphasized that any Australian decision would be independent, stating, “We’ll make our own decisions, but clearly the United States have a role to play here.”
“Those stipulations need to be advanced. That’s the point. We want to make sure its not just a gesture,” Albanese said, underscoring the need for tangible progress. He acknowledged recent “significant advances” by the Palestinian Authority regarding commitments to Israel’s security.
Australia is not bound by any specific timeline for recognizing a Palestinian state, with Albanese emphasizing that any such declaration must demonstrably contribute to the realization of a two-state solution. He added, “I believe very strongly that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people need to be realised.”
The Australian government will base its decision on assessments by Cabinet members, aiming for a positive impact on achieving the two-state goal. Recent progress cited by Albanese includes the Palestinian Authority’s June 10 statement recognizing Israel, opposing Hamas’s future involvement, and committing to democratic elections within 12 months of a Palestinian state’s creation.
However, these moves by Canada, France, and the UK have drawn criticism from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced concerns, stating, “A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel — not to live in peace beside it.” He asserted, “Let’s be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel.”
Israel’s foreign ministry reacted to Canada’s statement, calling it a “reward for Hamas” that undermines efforts for a ceasefire and hostage release.
While the United States, a key supporter of Israel, has not solidified a position, with President Donald Trump focusing on aid to Gaza, Albanese indicated this would not influence Australia’s decision. “We’ll make our own decisions,” he reiterated. He suggested an opportunity for U.S. leadership, stating, “I think there is an opportunity for the United States to play a leadership role here for President Trump to play a role that of course will be a matter for them.”
The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks, has led to a dire humanitarian situation. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 60,000 people have died, with widespread reports of starvation. Albanese condemned the impact on civilians, stating, “Israel’s actions are not defensible,” and announced Australia’s readiness to provide additional aid.
“Australia is certainly prepared to provide additional aid to Gaza,” Albanese said. “We have a humanitarian catastrophe unfolding there and Australia is willing to play our part. They [Israel] need to allow aid to flow freely into Gaza so as to avoid what we’re seeing there with innocent people being deprived of essential food and water. That is indeed something that is bringing … legitimate criticism of the actions of the Netanyahu government.”
France, the UK and Canada have indicated their intentions to recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September.
Mark Carney says Canada intends to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lashed out at nations offering support for a Palestinian state.
Keir Starmer says Britain will recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel moves to end the war in Gaza.
“I think there is an opportunity for the United States to play a leadership role here for President Trump to play a role that of course will be a matter for them.”
Local health authorities in Gaza say the number of people dying of starvation has increased in recent weeks.
There has been increasing pressure on Israel to allow more aid into Gaza.
