Australia Joins Nations Recognising Palestine

Australia will formally recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly next month, in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described as a significant step towards peace in the Middle East.

The move sets Canberra apart from its key ally, the United States, and comes amid global criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Albanese said a two-state solution remained the most realistic path to ending the violence, and confirmed that the decision followed commitments from the Palestinian Authority to recognise Israel, maintain a demilitarised state, implement governance reforms, and exclude Hamas from any future government.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the peace process had stalled and the time had come for the international community to act. She cautioned that Israel’s stated plans to occupy Gaza could breach international law.

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The announcement comes against the backdrop of the conflict in Gaza, where Palestinian officials report more than 60,000 civilian deaths since the Hamas attack of October 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticised recognition efforts as “shameful” and warned they could embolden militant groups.

Reactions in Australia have been mixed. Jewish community leaders called the decision a betrayal and premature, while supporters within the Labor Party said it fulfilled long-standing policy. Wong stressed that further steps, such as opening an embassy, would depend on the Palestinian Authority meeting its commitments.

The decision follows similar pledges from France, Canada, and the UK, adding to international momentum for Palestinian statehood. Canberra will formalise recognition at the UN in September.