In a significant foreign policy shift, Australia will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2025. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the move on August 11, 2025, stating it aims to boost international momentum for a two-state solution, support a ceasefire in Gaza, and push for the release of hostages.
Historical & Diplomatic Background
- The Israeli–Palestinian conflict has persisted for over seven decades, rooted in disputes over territory, sovereignty, and security.
- A two-state solution—envisioning independent Israeli and Palestinian states—has been the central framework endorsed by the UN, Arab League, and multiple Western powers.
- Recognition of Palestine has been slow among Western nations, with France, Britain, and Canada recently announcing similar intentions.
- Over 138 UN member states already recognise Palestine as a sovereign state.
Australia’s Announcement
Prime Minister Albanese’s Statement,
- Recognition to take place during UNGA September 2025.
- Conditional on Palestinian Authority (PA) commitments:
- No role for Hamas in future governance.
- Governance reforms and general elections.
- Demilitarisation of the proposed Palestinian state.
Rationale
- The decision comes after repeated warnings to Israel against military control of Gaza.
- Australia condemned illegal settlement expansion, threats of annexation, and rejection of Palestinian statehood by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Albanese stressed that a political solution is essential to end the cycle of violence.
Regional & International Reactions
- Israel: Expected to oppose the move, viewing recognition as undermining its security stance.
- Arab League: Welcomes steps that align with calls to end Hamas’s rule in Gaza.
- New Zealand: Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated the country will evaluate its position in the coming month.
- Global Context: Adds to growing diplomatic pressure on Israel amid international frustration over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
Why This is Significant
- Diplomatic Momentum – Australia joins a growing bloc of Western nations shifting towards recognising Palestine.
- Pressure on Israel – Strengthens global demands for halting settlement expansion and resuming peace talks.
- Opportunity for Palestinian Reform – Conditional recognition incentivises PA governance reforms.
- Isolation of Hamas – International alignment on excluding militant groups from political processes.