Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday that his country will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) next month. This decision, following similar announcements from France, Britain, and Canada, increases international pressure on Israel.
In a statement, Albanese said the recognition at the 80th session of the UNGA in September is intended to “contribute to international momentum towards a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.” Speaking to reporters in Canberra after a cabinet meeting, he clarified that the recognition is based on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including that Hamas would have no involvement in any future Palestinian state.
Albanese emphasized that “a two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza.” He mentioned that he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week, stressing the need for a political, not military, solution.
The Australian leader noted that the decision was “further compelled” by Netanyahu’s “disregard of the international community’s calls” and his failure to meet legal and ethical obligations in Gaza. In a joint statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Albanese accused the Netanyahu government of “extinguishing the prospect of a two-state solution” through the rapid expansion of illegal settlements and opposition to a Palestinian state. He said this moment offers an opportunity, citing commitments from the Palestinian Authority to reform and demilitarize, as well as demands from the Arab League for Hamas to end its rule in Gaza.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated on Monday that his country is also considering recognizing a Palestinian state. Peters said that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s cabinet would make a formal decision in September and present its position at the UN Leaders’ Week. While acknowledging that some of New Zealand’s close partners have already decided to recognize a Palestinian state, Peters stressed that New Zealand maintains an independent foreign policy.
In a statement, Peters said, “We intend to weigh up the issue carefully and then act according to New Zealand’s principles, values and national interest.” He added that the government needs to assess whether enough progress is being made for the Palestinian territories to become a “viable and legitimate state.” He concluded, “New Zealand has been clear for some time that our recognition of a Palestinian state is a matter of when, not if.”
