Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Monday that Australia will recognize a Palestinian state this September at the United Nations General Assembly, joining several Western nations amid growing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Australia’s move aligns with the UK, France, and Canada, increasing diplomatic pressure on the U.S. New Zealand is also considering recognition, with a decision expected after a September cabinet meeting.
Albanese said Australia received assurances from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas that Hamas would have no role in a future Palestinian state. Conditions for recognition include demilitarization, elections, ending payments to prisoners’ families, and international oversight to prevent incitement.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong informed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio of Australia’s plans, though the U.S. has dismissed such declarations as largely symbolic.
