The Australian government has condemned Hamas for attempting to 'manipulate facts for their own propaganda' after the terrorist group welcomed Canberra's decision to recognise a Palestinian state. Hamas co-founder Sheikh Hassan Yousef praised Australia's 'political courage' and called on other countries to follow suit, according to reports in Nine newspapers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestine at the United Nations next month, joining over 140 countries. He has stressed that Hamas would be excluded from any future Palestinian state and that the territory must be demilitarised. A government spokesperson urged caution, noting that Hamas opposes a two-state solution and that media should not promote propaganda from terrorist organisations.
The opposition criticised the move, with shadow foreign minister Michaelia Cash accusing the government of handing Hamas a 'massive propaganda victory'. Opposition leader Sussan Ley pledged a future Coalition government would revoke recognition. Professor Greg Barton of Deakin University said the recognition was 'completely decoupled' from support for Hamas, which has isolated itself through its 7 October attack.
Albanese reiterated in Brisbane that Hamas has no role in future governance and must lay down its weapons. The Arab League and international community have made it clear Hamas is excluded. The government faces challenges in ensuring pre-conditions for recognition are met, including dealing with Hamas's influence.
