Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent firm stance on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, labeling Israel’s aid blockade an “outrage,” is drawing increased attention to Australia’s ongoing debate on Palestinian statehood. This comes as France, under President Emmanuel Macron, intensifies its lobbying efforts for international recognition of Palestine ahead of a pivotal UN-backed summit.
The upcoming summit in New York, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia from June 17 to 20, is generating considerable buzz, with speculation that France might formally recognize Palestine during the event to reignite the peace process. While 147 of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestine, Australia, the UK, and the US have not. However, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s recent statements suggest a potential shift in Australia’s long-held position, viewing early recognition as a means to build momentum.
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed its engagement with international partners, including Australia, on its four key priorities for the summit: recognition of a state of Palestine, normalization of regional relations, reform of the Palestinian Authority, and disarmament of Hamas. A French spokesperson stated that Macron hopes this recognition would integrate into a broader political dynamic, facilitating both the establishment of a Palestinian state and Israel’s enhanced regional and international integration, and specifically noted Australia’s strong commitment to these aims.
Despite the government’s apparent lean towards a policy shift, the Australian opposition remains resolute. They argue that there can be “no recognition of a Palestinian state with Hamas still in control of Gaza,” emphasizing the need for the release of hostages and the surrender of Hamas’s capabilities before any recognition, warning against “rewarding terrorism.”