Hamas praises Australia for inherently bold acknowledgement of Palestinian statehood
In a significant diplomatic move, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the recognition of a Palestinian state on Monday, a decision that is set to take effect at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September. This announcement follows similar declarations by France, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
The Australian government's decision aims to contribute to international momentum towards a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages who have been held captive by Hamas for over five years. The move is framed as supporting peace and security by endorsing the establishment of two states side by side, consistent with Australia’s historical support dating back to the 1947 UN Resolution 181 that proposed the creation of Israel and a Palestinian state.
The implications of this recognition are far-reaching. Australia positions itself as a constructive partner seeking a peaceful, negotiated two-state solution, emphasizing governance reforms by the Palestinian Authority, including demilitarization and recognition of Israel's right to exist. The recognition may increase international pressure on Israel regarding settlement expansion and the annexation threat in occupied Palestinian territories. It also aligns Australia with a growing global trend responding to the Netanyahu government's opposition to Palestinian statehood.
However, the announcement has not been met with universal approval. The Israeli government, known for its opposition to Palestinian statehood and continued settlement expansion, is likely to view Australia's recognition negatively, seeing it as undermining Israeli security and negotiative positions. The Palestinian Authority, on the other hand, has committed to reforms, recognizing Israel, and is supportive of Australia’s recognition as it aligns with their statehood aspirations and peace commitments.
The reactions from Palestinian factions such as Hamas are more complex. While the sources do not provide direct statements from Hamas, given their historical opposition to recognition of Israel and rejection of the two-state framework, it is probable that they view Australia's move with skepticism or as inadequate since the recognition is tied to a two-state solution and governance reforms promoted by the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas.
Notably, Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel denounced Australia's announcement, stating it rewards Hamas. The statement by Hamas reflects political courage and a commitment to the values of justice and the right of peoples to self-determination, but it also calls on all countries, especially those that believe in freedom and human dignity, to follow Australia's example and support the Palestinian people.
In summary, Australia’s recognition of Palestine signals a diplomatic shift aimed at breaking the current deadlock by affirming statehood at the UN level, generating international momentum for peace. However, the move is expected to face criticism from Israel’s government and likely complex responses from Palestinian factions such as Hamas. The risk of escalating tensions remains, with 50 hostages still in Hamas's dungeons of torture, being starved to death and forced to dig their own graves.
[1] Source: ABC News (Australia) [2] Source: The Jerusalem Post
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