Australia is set to formally support the recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly next month, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The move aligns Australia with growing international support for Palestinian statehood, following similar positions recently taken by countries such as France, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Albanese stated that Australia’s backing is intended to contribute to global momentum toward a two-state solution, promote a ceasefire in Gaza, and facilitate the release of hostages. He emphasized that recognition would be contingent on assurances from the Palestinian Authority that the militant group Hamas would play no role in a future Palestinian government.
“A two-state solution remains the most viable path to ending the ongoing violence and humanitarian suffering in the Middle East,” the Prime Minister said during a press briefing in Canberra.
He also noted that he had spoken directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging a political resolution rather than continued military action.
Last week, Australia voiced opposition to Israel’s proposed plan to assume military control over Gaza. Albanese said this latest decision was prompted in part by what he described as Israel’s disregard for international appeals and its failure to meet legal and ethical responsibilities.
The Prime Minister, alongside Foreign Minister Penny Wong, condemned Israel’s ongoing expansion of settlements in the occupied territories, threats of annexation, and explicit rejection of a Palestinian state as actions that are undermining any prospect of a peaceful resolution.
Albanese highlighted commitments made by the Palestinian Authority, including plans for democratic reforms, disarmament, and the holding of general elections. He also referenced the Arab League’s demand for Hamas to step down from its authority in Gaza as a positive development, calling it a chance to marginalize the group.
“This moment presents a real opportunity to isolate Hamas and support a legitimate, peaceful Palestinian governance structure,” he added.
Foreign Minister Wong shared that she had communicated the decision to the U.S. Secretary of State. While some international leaders, including the U.S. President, have been critical of similar moves by other nations, Australia maintains that its decision is guided by the broader goal of long-term peace and security.
Israel’s ambassador to Australia publicly objected to the announcement, arguing that it threatens Israel’s security and may hinder ongoing negotiations to free hostages.
Until recently, the Australian government had been cautious about committing to a timeline for recognition, especially given the divided public sentiment on the conflict. However, growing domestic concern has influenced the shift. Earlier this month, tens of thousands marched across Sydney’s Harbour Bridge calling for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Albanese acknowledged that concerns over the destruction and human suffering in Gaza are not only voiced by international leaders but are widely felt within Australia.
Former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans welcomed the decision, saying it came at a crucial time and could amplify international pressure on Israel to alter its course.
Professor Donald Rothwell from Australian National University noted that formal recognition allows Australia to provide aid and support directly, participate in rebuilding Gaza, and establish legal agreements with the Palestinian Authority.
Palestinian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Varsen Aghabekian welcomed the announcement in an interview, describing it as a long-overdue step that offers hope to Palestinians, though stressed that securing a ceasefire remains the immediate priority.
New Zealand is expected to review its own position on Palestinian recognition later this month.
The ongoing conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led fighters launched a deadly cross-border attack, resulting in around 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of over 250 hostages. Since then, Palestinian health authorities report that more than 60,000 people in Gaza have been killed by Israeli military operations, and much of the territory has been devastated.
Widespread malnutrition has been reported, with aid agencies accusing Israel of deliberately limiting humanitarian access. Israel denies the charge, instead blaming Hamas and claiming that significant aid has already been delivered.
