Canberra, Australia — Australia will formally recognize a Palestinian state, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday, joining other Western leaders such as France, Britain, and Canada who have indicated similar intentions.
After a Cabinet meeting, Albanese emphasized that a two-state solution remains humanity’s best hope to end the ongoing violence in the Middle East and alleviate the suffering and starvation in Gaza. He confirmed that Australia’s decision would be officially announced at the United Nations General Assembly in September, contingent on certain commitments received from the Palestinian Authority.
“These commitments include excluding Hamas from any future Palestinian government, the demilitarization of Gaza, and holding elections,” Albanese told reporters outside Parliament House. “Our government has made it clear that there can be no role for the terrorists of Hamas in any future Palestinian state. This is one of the commitments Australia has sought and received from President Abbas and the Palestinian Authority,” he added.
The move comes amid growing criticism within the Australian government over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and follows warnings from Albanese and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon that Israel risks violating international law with its ongoing military offensive in Gaza. Both leaders urged Israel to reconsider its campaign against Hamas strongholds in Gaza City.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Australia’s planned recognition, calling it “shameful.”
Australia’s decision places it alongside France, the United Kingdom, and Canada in supporting Palestinian statehood. This contrasts with the United States, which has so far opposed recognizing a Palestinian state outside of a negotiated peace agreement with Israel.
The announcement comes in the wake of heightened conflict, as Netanyahu’s government authorized a military advance on Gaza City last week after ceasefire negotiations with Hamas stalled in July. Israeli forces had previously hesitated to enter the area due to concerns for the safety of hostages reportedly held there. Around 20 hostages are still believed to be alive.
With this recognition, Australia signals a significant shift in its Middle East policy amid ongoing regional tensions and international calls for peace.
