"Shifting opinions revealed": Australian demonstration against Gaza conflict signals expanding global concern
Australia to Recognise Palestine at UN, Amidst Gaza Conflict Protests
In a significant diplomatic move, Australia has announced its intention to officially recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th United Nations General Assembly session in September 2025. This decision, aimed at advancing the two-state solution and contributing to peace efforts, including a ceasefire in Gaza and hostage release, has been met with various responses both domestically and internationally.
The announcement comes amidst a wave of pro-Palestinian sentiment, with the recent protest on Sydney Harbour Bridge attended by an estimated 90,000 people according to police estimates, and organizers claiming a turnout of 300,000. The protest, organised by Josh Lees from the Palestinian Action Group, has been inspired by pro-Palestinian statements made by artists at Glastonbury and the victory of Democratic New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.
The protest, which received support from church groups, unions, and members of parliament, represents a broader section of society than previously engaged in similar events. However, the Australian government has stopped short of granting any of the other demands made by the protesters.
Co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Peter Wertheim, noted that none of the protesters called for the release of Israeli hostages. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar from Israel, however, urged Australians to "wake up!" regarding the protest. The Australian Iranian Community Alliance, meanwhile, questioned the intentions of the protesters, citing imagery at the march.
In response to the protest, the Australian government has committed an extra 20 million Australian dollars ($13 million) in aid to Gaza, taking the total to 130 million Australian dollars ($84 million) since October 2023. This decision follows the 2023 invasion of Gaza by Israel, which has been the subject of ongoing conflict and international concern.
Despite the recognition of Palestine, Australia's policy continues to support Israel's security while encouraging Palestinian reforms. The recognition reflects Australia's support for Palestinian governance reforms and commitments to demilitarisation and peaceful elections as foundational for a future Palestinian state consistent with the two-state framework.
It is important to note that Australia has not imposed any arms trade restrictions or sanctions against Israel in connection with the Gaza conflict or its recent recognition of Palestine. The announcement instead emphasises Australia’s intention to be a constructive partner in peace efforts, maintaining Israel's security alongside advancing Palestinian statehood.
This development signals a significant diplomatic step but does not at present reflect changes in Australia's arms trade or sanction policies related to the Gaza conflict. The US, however, has condemned the moves by the UK, France, and Canada to recognise a Palestinian state. The Labor government of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is under pressure to join other US allies in pledging formal recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September.
Looking ahead, the Palestinian Action Group is planning a nationwide event on August 24. The group, led by protest organiser Josh Lees, believes the protest has inspired people around the world to stand up against the conflict in Gaza. Lees, from the Palestinian Action Group, stated that the protest has shown that Australians care about the situation in Gaza and are willing to take action to support a peaceful resolution.
References: [1] Australian Broadcasting Corporation. (2025, August 1). Australia to recognise Palestine at UN. ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-01/australia-to-recognise-palestine-at-un/130812840
[2] The Sydney Morning Herald. (2025, August 1). Australia to recognise Palestine at UN. The Sydney Morning Herald. https://www.smh.com.au/world/australia-to-recognise-palestine-at-un-20250801-p58w3y.html
- The announcement by Australia to recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly session in September 2025 has sparked debates within the world's politics, particularly regarding war-and-conflicts in the Middle East, such as the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
- The recent pro-Palestinian protest on Sydney Harbour Bridge, attended by an estimated 90,000 people according to police estimates, validated the growing world opinion on Palestine, showcasing Australia's stance in general-news beyond its domestic arenas.
