On Monday, Australia announced it will recognize a Palestinian state. This decision follows a similar move by Canada. The recognition is contingent on assurances from the Palestinian Authority regarding the demilitarization of Gaza, the holding of elections, and the exclusion of Hamas from governance. This comes despite Hamas's recent declaration that it has no intention of relinquishing power or ceasing its conflict with Israel.

A statement released on July 31 by Hamas, along with its allies, highlighted the implications of a United Nations conference held in New York. The statement, shared on a Hamas Telegram channel, emphasized the importance of the New York Declaration. This declaration commits participating countries, including Canada, to take collective action to end the war in Gaza and work towards a negotiated two-state solution.

The New York Declaration condemns terrorism and calls for Hamas to release all hostages. It also seeks an end to violence and aims for the unification of Gaza and the West Bank, insisting that Hamas must relinquish its control over Gaza and disarm.

However, Hamas and its allies have a different interpretation. They welcomed international efforts to support Palestinian rights, attributing this to increased global solidarity in response to what they describe as a destructive war waged by Israel. Hamas has been accused of using its own people as human shields, prolonging their suffering while attempting to sway international opinion against Israel.

Hamas demands unconditional international recognition of a Palestinian state, claiming it as an inalienable right. They advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, insisting it should not be linked to political negotiations or the release of hostages. The group maintains that Palestinian resistance is a legitimate response to Israeli occupation and will continue until their goals are achieved.

These goals include the establishment of a Palestinian state that extends from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea, effectively eliminating the Jewish state. Hamas rejects any proposals for a peaceful coexistence with Israel, arguing that such discussions would only prolong Israel's presence in what they consider occupied land.

The group also demands the return of Palestinian refugees, which would challenge the demographic balance of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. Hamas's stance aligns with its founding charter, which calls for a struggle against Jews and emphasizes jihad in response to what they view as the usurpation of Palestine.