Australia Recognizes Palestine: A Move Towards Middle East Peace

Australia has announced its decision to recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September. The move is intended to contribute to building international momentum towards achieving a two-state solution, ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages, as per a statement released by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday.

Recalling Australia's historical support for Israel since 1947, the statement highlighted Foreign Minister Evatt's crucial role in Chairing the UN committee that advocated for two states. It noted Australia's pioneering support of Resolution 181, aiming to establish a state for both Israel and Palestine. "More than 77 years later, it's time for progress," the statement emphasized, pointing to the growing global momentum needed to break the cycle of Middle East conflict.

The Australian Government critiqued the current Israeli Government under Prime Minister Netanyahu, accusing it of jeopardizing the prospects of a two-state solution by expanding illegal settlements and opposing Palestinian statehood. The media release further welcomed major commitments by the Palestinian Authority, including governance reforms and an affirmation of Israel's right to exist. Australia vowed to work closely with international partners to foster normalized relations between Israel and its neighbors.

The statement contained praise for the Arab League's unprecedented demand that Hamas relinquish control over Gaza, emphasizing that Hamas continues to thwart the two-state solution by rejecting Israel's right to exist. Australia remains clear in its stance against any role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state. Additionally, it expressed concerns over Israel's non-compliance with legal and ethical obligations, particularly in Gaza, marking permanent forced civilian displacement as illegal.

Concluding, the statement reiterated Australia's unwavering commitment to a two-state solution as the only path to secure and prosperous futures for Israelis and Palestinians. Australia pledged to collaborate with global partners to forge a reliable peace plan grounded in mutual security assurances for both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples.

(With inputs from agencies.)