Australia’s Diplomatic Move: Hinting at Recognition of Palestinian State Amid Gaza Conflict

Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has suggested that Australia could recognize Palestinian statehood as a step toward promoting peace. However, she emphasized that any recognition should exclude Hamas from governance.

Wong’s statement marks a potential shift in Australia’s traditionally close alignment with Israel. The idea of recognizing Palestine as an independent state arises amid increasing global pressure for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Australia has historically maintained that recognition of Palestinian statehood should occur within the framework of a negotiated two-state solution with Israel. Wong’s remarks echo similar sentiments expressed by UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who hinted at the UK’s possible recognition of Palestinian statehood regardless of Israel’s support.

In recent months, the Australian government has expressed growing concerns about the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. These concerns were heightened following the death of an Australian aid worker in an Israeli airstrike, along with six others.

Wong emphasized the urgency of a two-state solution, describing it as the only viable means to end the cycle of violence between Israelis and Palestinians. She acknowledged frustrations with past approaches and criticized the Netanyahu government for its reluctance to engage on the issue of Palestinian statehood.

However, Australia’s opposition, led by Simon Birmingham, opposes unilaterally recognizing Palestinian statehood, citing a longstanding bipartisan policy. Birmingham argues that such a move could prioritize statehood over security and be perceived as rewarding terrorists.

Jeremy Leibler, President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, echoed Birmingham’s stance, calling discussions of Palestinian statehood premature. He emphasized the need for removing Hamas, fostering new Palestinian leadership committed to non-violence, and recognizing Israel’s right to exist.

In contrast to critics’ viewpoints, Wong defended the recognition of Palestinian statehood, rejecting claims that it would reward Hamas. She argued that Israel’s security relies on a two-state solution and suggested that recognizing Palestinian statehood could undermine Hamas’s influence.

Currently, approximately 140 countries recognize Palestinian statehood, but major powers like the US, UK, Germany, and Australia do not. The United Nations is anticipated to discuss granting Palestine full membership as international pressure mounts for a resolution to the Gaza conflict.