Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being “in denial” about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, following a phone call between the two leaders. Albanese’s comments come as Australia prepares to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September, a move welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Speaking to ABC TV, Albanese said Netanyahu reiterated his public stance, which he described as denial of the consequences for innocent people. The Australian leader emphasised that the international community is seeking a permanent solution to the conflict, including an end to Israel’s military occupation of Gaza City.
Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state is conditional on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including no role for Hamas in a future government. Albanese suggested that international pressure, including from Arab states, could prevent Hamas from participating in future elections. However, he declined to specify whether Australia would revoke recognition if conditions were not met.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong stated that Australia would work with the international community to hold the Palestinian Authority to its commitments. The opposition Coalition criticised the decision, claiming it rewards Hamas, and opposition leader Sussan Ley said a future Coalition government would revoke recognition, though details on how this would be achieved remain unclear.
Former Liberal Prime Minister Scott Morrison claimed Jewish Australians would feel a “sense of betrayal,” describing the move as a hollow gesture. Israel’s government has also expressed strong criticism of Australia’s plan.
