We welcome the Prime Minister’s comments that Australia will not follow other nations in prematurely recognising a Palestinian state. The Government has consistently stated that recognition cannot occur until Hamas is removed from power, all hostages are returned, and the Palestinian Authority is reformed. Recognising Palestinian statehood now is nothing but a reward for Hamas in the wake of October 7.
It’s deeply counterproductive for countries such as Canada, the UK and France to frame recognition of a Palestinian state as a diplomatic reprimand for Israel; state recognition must never be used as a political punishment.
Recognition now would also set up any future Palestinian state for failure when the necessary foundations for statehood do not currently exist.