Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a landmark foreign policy shift: Australia will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025
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Background and Context
The announcement aligns Australia with recent moves by allies such as France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, contributing to growing international momentum for a two-state solution
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In a press briefing, Albanese stated that such recognition is not symbolic but rather a practical contribution toward peace
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Conditions for Recognition
Australia’s recognition is contingent on commitments from the Palestinian Authority (PA), which include:
Excluding Hamas from any governing role.
Demilitarising the prospective Palestinian state.
Holding general elections under international oversight
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Additionally, the PA must recognise Israel’s right to exist in peace and undertake governance reforms
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Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that these steps are essential, and that the timing—September—was chosen to generate momentum toward peace
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The Gaza Humanitarian Crisis
Albanese underscored the severity of the situation in Gaza, stating that it has “gone beyond the world’s worst fears,” citing soaring civilian casualties, widespread starvation, and the need for urgent humanitarian response
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The Call with Netanyahu
Albanese revealed he had a “long” and “civil” phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging a political—not military—solution to the conflict. He reiterated that Israel’s expanding settlements and hardline policies undermine the possibility of peace
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Netanyahu, in turn, denounced Australia’s move (alongside those of other countries) as “shameful” and “disappointing”
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Domestic and International Reactions
Supporters, including Greens and pro-Palestinian advocacy groups, welcomed the announcement
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Critics, such as the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) and opposition figures voiced concerns. Some warned it might embolden Hamas, label the move as premature, or call it a betrayal of hostages still held in Gaza
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Global Alignment
Australia’s move follows a string of similar recognitions by European allies. Meanwhile, New Zealand is also weighing its stance, likely to decide around the UN General Assembly in September
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Conclusion
Australia’s decision to recognise the State of Palestine in September 2025 marks a significant shift in its Middle East policy. Grounded in a humanitarian imperative and commitment to a two-state solution, the recognition is conditional—particularly aimed at ensuring peaceful governance, demilitarisation, and democracy. While welcomed by many as a step toward justice and stability, it has drawn scrutiny from those concerned about timing, geopolitical repercussions, and the unresolved influence of Hamas in Gaza. As the UN General Assembly approaches, the international community watches closely to see if this decision catalyses concrete action toward lasting peace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When will Australia recognise the State of Palestine?
Australia has announced it will formally recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September 2025
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. - What conditions has Australia placed on recognition?
Recognition depends on Palestinian Authority commitments: no Hamas role, demilitarisation, elections, and recognition of Israel
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. - Why has Australia made this move now?
The decision follows mounting domestic and international pressure, humanitarian concerns in Gaza, and momentum from allies also recognising Palestine
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. - How did Netanyahu react?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labelled the move “shameful” and criticised the recognition as misguided
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. - What has been the domestic response in Australia?
Mixed reactions: Greens and advocacy groups praised the decision; others—including ECAJ and opposition leaders—warned it’s premature and could undermine peace
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. - Are other countries making similar moves?
Yes. France, the UK, Canada, and potentially New Zealand are aligning with or considering similar recognition
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