Australia Recognises Palestinian State Amid Gaza Crisis

Strategic Insights -

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that his country would recognize a Palestinian state at the next month's UN General Assembly, just a day after criticizing Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for his handling of the Gaza crisis. The decision follows a shift in public opinion in Australia, which has significant Jewish and Muslim minorities, after Israel's plans to militarily occupy Gaza sparked widespread demonstrations. This move by Australia is the latest in a series of recognitions by member countries of the G20, after France, the UK, and Canada.

Key Takeaways:

  • Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state is conditional on commitments received from the Palestinian Authority that Hamas will have no role in any future state.
  • The decision was influenced by Israel's reluctance to listen to its allies and its handling of the Gaza crisis, with over 61,400 people killed and widespread starvation and displacement.
  • The move is seen as a significant shift in public opinion in Australia, with tens of thousands of demonstrators calling for humanitarian aid to be sent into Gaza.
  • The decision has been met with criticism from Israel, with its ambassador to Australia saying that it undermines Israel's security and hands a victory to those who oppose coexistence.
  • New Zealand is also considering recognizing a Palestinian state and will make a formal decision in September.
  • Nearly 150 of the 193 members of the UN have already recognized Palestinian statehood, with most of them doing so decades ago.

Statistics:

  • 61,400 people killed in Israel's war on Gaza.
  • 2.2 million people displaced in Gaza.
  • 150 of 193 UN member states have recognized Palestinian statehood.
  • 20 estimated hostages still alive in Gaza.
  • 1,200 people killed and 251 abducted during a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023.

Sources:

  • Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu was "in denial" about the Gaza crisis.
  • Reference: [ABC Radio Australia](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-09/anthony-albanese-israel-gaza/100729004)
  • Australia recognises Palestinian state.
  • Reference: [The Australian](https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/aussie-pm-anthony-albanese-says-israel-in-denial-about-gaza-crisis/news-story/b3c16a75407953d0a209b05894905a8f)
  • New Zealand considering recognising Palestinian state.
  • Reference: [Stuff.co.nz](https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/125561809/new-zealand-considering-recognising-palestinian-state)