Australia has formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign and independent state, marking a landmark change in foreign policy over the Israel-Gaza war.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the decision at the United Nations in New York, aligning with similar moves by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
“Enough is enough. We must end the cycle of violence,” Albanese said, pointing to 80 years of conflict in the Middle East.
He emphasised that Hamas could play no role in a future Palestinian state: “The terrorist atrocities that occurred by Hamas on 7 October ensure and underline why Hamas can play no role in the future Palestinian state. But just as the Jewish people have a homeland in Israel, Palestinians have a legitimate aspiration for their own homeland as well.”
My statement formally recognising the State of Palestine. pic.twitter.com/LnmrX29TCV
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) September 21, 2025
The recognition, effective from Sunday, has triggered sharp backlash from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move, declaring: “There will be no Palestinian state. I have a clear message to those leaders who are recognising a Palestinian state after the horrendous 7 October massacre: You are rewarding terror with an enormous prize. And I have another message for you: It’s not going to happen.”
He warned that Israel’s response would follow his return from the US, telling world leaders to “stand by.”
Foreign Minister Penny Wong defended Australia’s stance from New York: “We’re working with others because we want to be part of the global momentum for peace.”
The recognition is intended to revive momentum for a two-state solution, including a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Recognition is a step forward – for peace, security and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/TmWEp2RCGS
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) September 21, 2025
Establishing an embassy and diplomatic relations will depend on the Palestinian Authority meeting reforms, including recognition of Israel, democratic elections, and changes to governance and education.
Albanese underscored the humanitarian crisis: “You can’t have a circumstance where people have been denied essential food and water and medicines. You can’t have the number of civilian deaths that we’ve seen. This is the world saying that what is going on in Gaza is completely unacceptable.”
The decision has also drawn warnings from US Republicans. A group of 25 allies of Donald Trump, including Ted Cruz and Elise Stefanik, urged leaders to reconsider, warning of “punitive measures” against countries recognising Palestine. Trump himself has already threatened retaliation against Canada.
Albanese, who has long advocated Palestinian statehood, will speak this week at a major conference on a two-state solution.
Source: The Guardian.
