The Australian government announced on Monday that the country will recognize the state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly, scheduled for September. The decision was communicated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, after meeting of the Camberra cabinet, and aligns the country to nations such as France and the United Kingdom, who also declared support for the measure.
In a press conference transmitted by the public broadcaster ABCAlbanese argued that “the solution of two states is the best hope of humanity to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and end conflict, suffering and hunger in Gaza.” The Australian leader justified the decision by citing recent conversations with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Stmerer, both favorable to recognition.
The announcement occurs amid criticism from the Australian government to Israel about plans announced of occupying the Gaza Strip. According to Albanese, “the situation in Gaza went beyond the worst fears in the world. Many innocent lives have been lost. The Israeli government continues to challenge international law and denies sufficient help, food and water to desperate people (…) it is much more than drawing a line to a map, it is about giving a board of salvation to Gaza’s legality.”
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong reinforced the position. “We made it clear that we would recognize Palestine when it contributed better to the impulse toward peace. September is the moment. When the world says it has lasted too much time. When the world says suffering, death and destruction should end,” he said alongside Albanese.
The Australian decision happens despite Israel’s warnings. This Sunday (10), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu classified as “shameful” the footsteps of various countries towards the recognition of Palestine at this time.
In addition to France, the United Kingdom and now Australia, several other countries have already confirmed or signaled that they will officially recognize the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September, including Canada, Malta, Portugal and Luxembourg. In all, according to United Nations data, at least 145 of 193 Member States already recognize or plan to recognize Palestine.
