A group of U.S. Republican lawmakers has issued a warning to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other leaders regarding plans to recognize a Palestinian state. In an open letter, 25 members of Congress urged Australia, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom to reconsider their intentions ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.

The letter states that recognizing Palestinian statehood would be a "reckless policy" that could empower Hamas, jeopardize Israel's security, and hinder the prospects for a negotiated peace. The lawmakers wrote, "Proceeding with recognition will put your country at odds with long-standing U.S. policy and interests and may invite punitive measures in response."

The letter was addressed to Albanese, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. It emphasized that the U.S. would be closely monitoring the actions of its allies during the UN assembly.

The Republicans expressed concern that recognizing Palestine would exacerbate antisemitism in Australia and incite violence. They stated, "Hamas's war crimes are clear, and its rejection of diplomacy should lead your countries to impose more pressure. Instead, you offer greater rewards. It is baffling and deeply troubling to reward Hamas with statehood before they have returned every hostage."

Among the signatories were Senator Ted Cruz and House Representative Elise Stefanik, who was previously considered for the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. The letter also included a note from former President Donald Trump.

Albanese arrived in New York on Sunday and is expected to formally recognize Palestinian statehood at the UN assembly. He will also attend a reception hosted by Trump, which may lead to their first in-person meeting. Discussions are likely to focus on the AUKUS defense partnership and relations with China.

In August, Australia announced its intention to recognize the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly, aiming to support international efforts toward a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages.

The U.S. response to Australia's recognition was critical, with the U.S. Ambassador to Israel expressing that the decision was met with disapproval from senior members of the Trump administration. Albanese downplayed these comments, noting that the ambassador represents the U.S. in Israel, not Australia.

The United Kingdom, Canada, and France have also indicated plans to recognize Palestine at the UN, contingent on Hamas not participating in its governance.