Australia has announced its intention to recognise a Palestinian state, following major European and Arab states’ agreements on progress towards Palestinian statehood. The decision comes as part of a plan to promote a two-state solution in the region.
The Albanese government gained confidence it could take this step after international commitments were made at the New York Declaration conference in July. This agreement aims to deliver peace in the Middle East by laying the foundations for a plan that could follow the “day after” war ends in Gaza.
Under the One State, One Government, One Law, One Gun policy, Palestinian Authority will hold democratic elections within a year, support disarmament of Hamas, and reform its school curriculum. In return, financial support would be provided to the Palestinian Authority as it progresses reforms under a staged plan.
A joint statement by foreign ministers from several nations voiced their support for commitments made by the Palestinian Authority. This move marks a shift in global politics, with Arab League nations signing onto a plan that recognises Israel, demands Hamas disarmament, and condemns the terror group’s October 7 attack.
Despite this, significant hurdles remain, including Hamas’ refusal to surrender hostages captured during the October 7 terror attack and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to progressing the two-state solution. The US has also expressed its opposition to full Palestinian membership to the United Nations, calling it a “reward” for Hamas.
International relations specialist Professor Amin Saikal says that Australian recognition is significant but will not make much difference on the ground in the Middle East. However, he notes that Israel may become more isolated if Prime Minister Netanyahu remains defiant, and sanctions could follow.
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-12/palestine-recognition-pathway-albanese-confidence-israel/105638624