Australia Announces It Will Recognize Palestinian Statehood
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that his country will formally recognize a Palestinian state, a decision to be formalized at the UN General Assembly in September. The move, which follows similar signals from France, Britain, and Canada, is predicated on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including no role for Hamas and demilitarization. Albanese described the decision as a practical contribution to a two-state solution and an end to the "humanitarian catastrophe" and cycle of violence in Gaza.
Unpacked:
According to the Australian government, the PA committed to reform governance, end prisoner payments, reform schooling, demilitarise, hold general elections, exclude Hamas from any role, and restate recognition of Israel’s right to exist.
Australia backed UN Resolution 181 in 1947 creating two states and voted in 2012 to grant Palestine UN non‑member observer status. The current step is framed as reviving the two‑state path Australia has long supported while criticizing settlement expansion and annexation threats that undermine it.
Recognition signals support for Palestinian statehood in UN forums and aligns Australia with states building momentum for a two‑state solution. Canberra plans to work on a credible peace plan, governance and security arrangements, and coordinate with partners; Australia already has a representative office in Ramallah.
Australia cites growing international momentum with similar signals from allies. Recognition by Western states can increase diplomatic pressure for a ceasefire, hostage release, governance reforms, and a negotiated two‑state framework, while challenging Israeli policies viewed as obstructing statehood.