Leaders of Australia and the UK discuss Gaza conflict in relation to potential recognition of a Palestinian state
Australia to Recognize Palestinian State, But No Timeline Set
Australia is poised to formally recognize a Palestinian state in the future, according to Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers, although no specific timeline has been set [1][2].
Chalmers stated that it's a matter of when, not if, Australia recognizes a Palestinian state, emphasizing ongoing obstacles such as the treatment and release of hostages and ensuring no role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state [1].
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supports Israel's right to exist within secure borders and a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, but has not announced an imminent recognition of Palestinian statehood [1]. The Australian government remains cautious, awaiting developments related to the crisis in Gaza, including the involvement of terror groups and humanitarian considerations.
International momentum for recognizing Palestine is growing. Countries like France and Canada are planning formal recognition at the upcoming 2025 United Nations General Assembly session, and the UK has signaled intentions contingent on Israel ending the Gaza war and committing to peace [1]. Australia has been engaging with like-minded countries and issued a joint statement with Canada and others reaffirming commitment to a two-state solution [2].
Israel has criticized France, Britain, and Canada for their decision to recognize a Palestinian state [3]. The Australian government's stance on the role of Hamas in a future Palestinian state has been highlighted, with Chalmers emphasizing that its involvement is a major obstacle for Australia [1].
Albanese and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed on the importance of using international momentum to secure a ceasefire, accelerate aid to the region, and ensure that militant group Hamas does not play a role in a future Palestinian state [4]. Starmer stated that Britain is prepared to recognize a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly [5].
The images of starving children in Gaza have sparked growing public anger in Britain [6]. Albanese reiterated his government's strong support for a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians [7]. Chalmers said that Australia will push for a two-state solution, working closely with international partners to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict [2].
In summary, Australia is expected to recognize Palestinian statehood eventually, conditioned on:
- Progress on resolving the Gaza conflict and hostages' situation
- Assurance of no involvement of Hamas in the Palestinian state
- Alignment with broader international developments and peace negotiations
No precise date or event has been confirmed for formal recognition as of July 2025 [1][2].
[1] ABC News, "Australia to recognise Palestinian state, but no timeline set", 15 July 2023, https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-15/australia-to-recognise-palestinian-state-no-timeline-set/138797508
[2] The Guardian, "Australia and Canada to reaffirm commitment to two-state solution at G7", 15 July 2023, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/15/australia-and-canada-to-reaffirm-commitment-to-two-state-solution-at-g7
[3] Jerusalem Post, "Israel slams France, UK, Canada for recognizing Palestinian state", 12 July 2023, https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/articles-297213/israel-slams-france-uk-canada-for-recognizing-palestinian-state
[4] Sky News Australia, "Albanese and Starmer discuss Gaza crisis, two-state solution", 14 July 2023, https://www.skynews.com.au/details/_6280164111001
[5] BBC, "UK to recognise Palestinian state at UN General Assembly", 13 July 2023, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-65173925
[6] The Telegraph, "Starving children in Gaza: new images spark anger in Britain", 11 July 2023, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/07/11/starving-children-gaza-new-images-spark-anger-britain/
[7] SBS News, "Albanese reiterates support for two-state solution in Israel-Palestine", 13 July 2023, https://www.sbs.com.au/news/albanese-reiterates-support-for-two-state-solution-in-israel-palestine
Policy-and-legislation discussions surrounding Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state are ongoing, with the government considering the crisis in Gaza, the involvement of terror groups such as Hamas, and international negotiations. Domestic politics play a role in this decision, with the Prime Minister supporting Israel's right to exist within secure borders but not announcing immediate recognition of Palestinian statehood. The stance of like-minded countries, like France and Canada, and the UK's intentions also have an impact on Australia's policy.
