The Zionist Federation of Australia strongly opposes the Government’s intention to unilaterally recognise a Palestinian state at the UN next month. While we support a negotiated two-state outcome, moving forward while Hamas remains in power and the Palestinian Authority has not delivered verified reforms will only undermine peace efforts and reward terrorism.
ZFA President, @jeremyleibler, said, “the Government points to non-binding commitments from the Palestinian Authority, which lacks the capacity to implement them. Advancing recognition without demonstrable change will embolden Hamas and weaken efforts to build accountable institutions.
Recognition without agreed borders, a single governing authority, or a demonstrated capacity for peaceful coexistence does not advance peace. It departs from Australia’s bipartisan position and risks delaying, rather than resolving, the conflict.
Premature recognition also forfeits critical leverage needed to secure the reforms any viable Palestinian state requires. If Australia is determined to act, it should tie any step to clear, independently verified benchmarks.”
These benchmarks should include:
•Hamas is removed from power and disarmed, with security arrangements that protect both Israelis and Palestinians.
•A framework for the release of hostages and sustained humanitarian access.
•Palestinian Authority reforms: ending ‘pay for slay,’ removing incitement, anti-corruption measures, and a path to free elections.
•Recognition of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.
The ZFA stands ready to support a principled pathway to Palestinian self-determination that strengthens peace and safeguards Israel’s security. But recognition must follow verified change, not precede it.