Australia to Recognise Palestinian State at UN in Septemberlbanese said the decision follows commitments from the Palestinian Authority (PA) to demilitarise, hold general elections, continue recognising Israel’s right to exist, and ensure Hamas plays no role in a future Palestinian state.
“A two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to end the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza,” Albanese said.
He added that the move followed consultations with leaders from the UK, France, New Zealand and Japan over the past fortnight.
The PA, which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, welcomed the decision, saying it reflects growing global support for Palestinian self-determination.
Israel condemned the move, warning it “rewards terrorism.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised countries recognising Palestine, calling the decision “shameful” and arguing that no government would tolerate attacks like those of 7 October 2023, when Hamas-led militants killed about 1,200 people in Israel and took 251 hostages.
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, launched in response to that attack, has killed more than 61,000 people since 2023, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
It said 217 have died from starvation and malnutrition, including five over the weekend.
The US has rejected recognising Palestinian statehood at this time, with Vice-President JD Vance citing the absence of a functional government.
The announcement in Australia came a day after tens of thousands joined a pro-Palestinian march across Sydney Harbour Bridge, following a court ruling allowing the demonstration.
Globally, 147 of the UN’s 193 member states recognise Palestine, which holds the status of “permanent observer state” at the UN, allowing participation but not voting rights.
Last year, Spain, Ireland and Norway also granted recognition, saying they hoped it would encourage a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
