Australia has formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign and independent state, completing a landmark shift in foreign policy over the Israel-Gaza war.

The prime minister, Anthony Albanese , moved forward with formal recognition, effective from Sunday, acting in concert with similar declarations by prime ministers Keir Starmer of the UK and Mark Carney of Canada.

The plan is designed to build renewed momentum for a two-state solution in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages from the 7 October 2023 terror attacks orchestrated by Hamas .

In August, Australia said it would join the international push led by France, prompting fury from Israeli’s leader Benjamin Netanyahu and possible retribution from the US president, Donald Trump. Republ

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