Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that Australia plans to officially recognize Palestinian statehood in September, during the UN General Assembly, reports BBC.
Albanese informed that Australia has received assurances from the Palestinian government that it is committed to demilitarizing the territory, holding general elections and continuing to recognize Israel’s right to exist. The Australian Prime Minister indicated on the 11th of August that a two-state solution is the most promising opportunity to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East, end the military conflict, suffering and hunger in Gaza. Israel, which is feeling increasing pressure to end the hostilities in Gaza, has stated that recognizing Palestine rewards terrorism.
The hostilities in Gaza began in October 2023, when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 people prisoner. More than 61,000 people have been killed in the nearly two-year war between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, and more civilians are starving to death.
The Palestinian Authority, which controls part of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has previously said the recognitions show growing support for Palestinian self-determination. Albanese said
Palestinian officials have assured that Hamas will not be involved in any way in governing the state.
Australia’s decision came after talks in recent weeks with politicians in New Zealand, Britain, France and Japan. Albanese said the time for action was now, and Australia would urge the international community to seize the opportunity.
The United States has said it will not follow suit and agrees with the Israelis that recognizing Palestinian statehood would be a form of reward for terrorism. US Vice President J. JD Vance has stressed that the United States does not plan to recognize Palestine, citing the lack of a functioning government as the main reason.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized countries that plan to recognize Palestine, saying that the actions of European countries and Australia are disappointing and even shameful. “They know what they would do if, right next to Melbourne or right next to Sydney, you had this horrific attack. I think you would do at least what we’re doing,” Netanyahu said.
Israel has come under criticism in recent days for plans to carry out new military operations in Gaza.
Norway, Ireland and Spain recognized Palestinian statehood in 2024, and 147 of the 193 UN member states have now done so. Palestine can participate in UN meetings but does not have the right to vote.
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