Australia will officially recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday. This decision aligns Australia with other nations, including France, Britain, and Canada, which have also indicated their support for Palestinian statehood. Albanese described the situation in Gaza as a "humanitarian catastrophe" and emphasized the need for a political solution to the ongoing conflict.

The Prime Minister stated that Australia's recognition is contingent upon commitments from the Palestinian Authority. These commitments include ensuring that Hamas, the Islamist militant group, will not play a role in any future Palestinian government, as well as the demilitarization of Gaza and the holding of elections. Albanese remarked, "A two-state solution is humanity's best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering, and starvation in Gaza."

In recent weeks, Albanese has faced increasing pressure from within his Cabinet and the Australian public to take a stand on Palestinian statehood, particularly in light of Israel's military actions in Gaza. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans for a new military offensive, stating that the Israeli government continues to defy international law and restrict essential aid to the people of Gaza.

Ahead of the announcement, Netanyahu expressed disappointment with Australia and other countries recognizing a Palestinian state, calling it a "shameful" move. He reiterated that the conflict could end if Hamas disarmed and released hostages taken during the recent violence.

Albanese has also engaged in discussions with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who governs parts of the occupied West Bank. Abbas has expressed support for a two-state solution and has cooperated with Israel on security matters. Albanese noted that this recognition could help isolate Hamas and promote self-determination for the Palestinian people.

Despite nearly 150 of the 193 UN member states recognizing Palestinian statehood, the United States and other Western powers have refrained from doing so, insisting that statehood should be part of a comprehensive peace agreement. Albanese dismissed claims that Australia's recognition is merely symbolic, asserting that it contributes to building momentum for a two-state solution.

Following the announcement, Israel's ambassador to Australia criticized the decision, arguing that it undermines Israel's security and elevates Hamas's status. He stated, "By recognizing a Palestinian state now, Australia elevates the position of Hamas, a group it acknowledges as a terrorist organization."

Nasser Mashni, president of the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, criticized the timing of the recognition, calling it "too late" and "completely meaningless" while Australia continues to engage in trade with Israel. He expressed concern that the move would not address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

As Australia prepares for the UN General Assembly, neighboring New Zealand is also considering its position on recognizing a Palestinian state, with officials indicating that a decision will be made in September.