Australia to Recognize Palestinian State, Deepening US Diplomatic Isolation
Australia to Recognize Palestinian State, Deepening US Diplomatic Isolation
In a significant diplomatic shift, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced today, Monday, that Australia will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the United United Nations General Assembly in September. This move places Australia among a growing list of Western allies, including the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, planning similar recognition, further isolating the United States in its stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Albanese clarified that Australia’s recognition is predicated on commitments received from the Palestinian Authority, including demilitarization, general elections, an end to payments to families of prisoners and martyrs, and comprehensive governance and education reform. He emphasized that a two-state solution remains the best hope for breaking the cycle of violence and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Mirroring Australia’s sentiment, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed his country is also considering recognizing a Palestinian state, with a decision expected at a cabinet meeting in September. If New Zealand proceeds, it would mean four of the five ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence-sharing nations will acknowledge Palestinian statehood.
The announcements come amidst escalating international condemnation of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has led to a severe humanitarian catastrophe. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly denounced such steps by Western nations as “shameful,” asserting they will not alter Israel’s position.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong underscored the necessity for new diplomatic approaches, stating, “We cannot keep doing the same thing, and hoping for a different outcome.” The decision aims to build momentum towards a two-state solution, which Australia views as the sole viable path to lasting peace in the region.
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