Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has cautioned the media about Hamas propaganda, following confusion over statements attributed to the terrorist group's co-founder regarding Australia's pledge to recognise a Palestinian state.
On Wednesday, Nine newspapers reported that Hassan Yousef, a senior Hamas official, had welcomed the decision, praising Australia's political courage. However, Hamas later said Yousef had been in an Israeli jail since October 2023 and could not communicate with media. Nine clarified on Thursday that the statement came from Yousef's political office, which issues statements on his behalf.
Albanese told reporters on Thursday that Hamas does not want a two-state solution and that the incident should serve as a warning to media. 'What that should be is a warning to the media, of being very careful about the fact that Hamas will engage in propaganda,' he said.
The opposition had seized on the initial report, with foreign affairs spokesperson Michaelia Cash saying Albanese should hang his head in shame, and opposition leader Sussan Ley pointing to 'Hamas co-founder praising our prime minister'. A Hamas Telegram channel later denied Yousef had made any statement on Australia's recognition.
The government had earlier cautioned against legitimising the attributed statement, with a spokesperson saying Hamas always tries to manipulate facts for propaganda. Nine updated its story to clarify the source of the statement.
