Countries Australia and New Zealand consider reinstating Palestinian recognition, but is it merely a superficial gesture?
In a significant shift in foreign policy, Australia has announced its intention to recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, subject to commitments from the Palestinian Authority. These commitments include the exclusion of Hamas, demilitarization of Gaza, and holding elections. New Zealand, on the other hand, is considering a similar move but has not yet formally recognized Palestine as of August 2025.
Australia's decision to recognize Palestine stems from concerns over Israeli government actions, such as settlement expansion and military operations in Gaza. The Australian government has been vocal in its criticism of the Netanyahu government for undermining prospects for peace, calling for the protection of civilians and humanitarian access in Gaza. Australia supports a two-state solution as the basis for peace and security in the region.
New Zealand, too, is aligned with the international momentum towards a two-state solution and is contemplating recognition to contribute to peace efforts. The exact timing of New Zealand's recognition is yet to be announced, but Foreign Minister Winston Peters has indicated that it is a matter of "when," not "if."
It is important to note that neither Australia nor New Zealand had formally recognized Palestine as a state before 2025. These countries, along with France, Canada, and the UK, had previously refrained from recognition pending direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The announcements in 2025 mark a notable development in their policies towards Palestine.
In summary, Australia plans to officially recognize Palestine in September 2025, conditional on Palestinian Authority commitments, while New Zealand is considering recognition to contribute to peace efforts. Both countries support a two-state solution as a potential solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
This growing international support for recognizing Palestine is seen as an effort to break the cycle of violence and pursue peace. The decision regarding a two-state solution will be made by New Zealand's cabinet next month, while Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, advocates for a two-state solution to end the conflict in the Middle East.
War-and-conflicts continue to dominate general-news headlines, with Australia's policy-and-legislation shift towards recognizing Palestine marking a significant step in the two-state solution efforts. New Zealand is contemplating a similar move, aligning itself with international momentum to contribute to peace in the Middle East.
