Australia has joined several other G7 nations in a coordinated recognition of Palestinian statehood, drawing the ire of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

New York

Israel and Iran have agreed a ceasefire after a twelve day conflict. Meanwhile, Israel strikes in Gaza continue with the humanitarian crisis deepening.

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Australia has formally recognised the state of Palestine, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese making the announcement at the United Nations headquarters. This move aligns Australia with countries such as France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, and is intended to support momentum for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. The government clarified that the recognition does not extend to Hamas and that practical changes, such as updated government communications, will follow, but no embassy will be opened at this stage.

The decision has prompted strong reactions both internationally and within Australia. Israel issued a warning in response, while Palestinian representatives welcomed the move as a step towards peace. Domestically, the announcement has been met with criticism from both Palestinian and Jewish communities, as well as opposition parties, with concerns raised about its impact and effectiveness. The government maintains that Australia's foreign policy decisions are independent and not influenced by other nations.

Australia officially recognises state of Palestine

Standing beneath the United Nations headquarters, Anthony Albanese made his declaration. That's significant and historic. The Commonwealth of Australia recognises the state of Palestine. Australia has joined a moment here in New York, led by France. The United Kingdom and Canada have also recognised the state of Palestine. The escalation of violence has to stop, and like-minded countries are coming together. We are not recognising Hamas. The Albanese government maintains it builds momentum for a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. But practically, the recognition that's now in effect makes little change. For now, what we will do is ensure that Australian government communications are updated to reflect this formal recognition. It could lead to diplomatic ties, but first the Palestinian Authority has to deliver on its commitments, including holding democratic elections, and Hamas also has to be excluded from the process. We're not about to open an embassy. All of the legitimate questions of detail you have, they confront all of us. Reaction has been swift. Israel's was strong with a warning to stand by for a response. You are giving a huge reward to terrorism. It will not happen. A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River. Hamas stated recognition was an important step, and the Palestinian ambassador to the UN thanked the Prime Minister. This is a huge investment in peace and saving the two-state solution. So it's got the world's attention. And made headlines here in the United States, where Republican members of Congress are threatening retaliation for the move. We're a sovereign nation. Are you saying that you don't think there'll be any impact on our relationship with the United States? I'm saying that Australia makes our position. Our foreign policy isn't determined in Washington or Beijing or Wellington, for that matter. The Prime Minister is positioning himself here as a pursuer of peace. He has picked a different side to the United States, but he's adamant it will have no bearing on him securing a formal meeting with President Trump. No is the answer. President Trump will be here on Tuesday. Today, there was reflection on the death of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankham in Gaza from an Israeli airstrike, as the UN moves to better protect humanitarian workers. Ashley Raper, 10 News First, New York. Senior political correspondent Chloe Burrus is live at Parliament House in Canberra for us tonight. Chloe, this is a huge call on the world stage, but what's been the impact back here at home? Well, Sandra, it was done in a coordinated move with allies, G7 countries no less, but this is a big political moment for Australia. The Prime Minister announced his intention to recognise Palestinian statehood on this trip six weeks ago. It's now formally happened and representatives of both Palestinian and Jewish communities in Australia have criticised the federal government for different reasons. The opposition's also been very vocal. Here's some of the reaction from around the country today. He is officially rewarding Hamas. Hamas are terrorists for the slaughter on October the 7th. Fundamentally, this is bad policy. It doesn't change anything on the ground. It doesn't resolve the issues that have been between the Palestinians and the Israelis for decades now. As for the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, it says it's too little too late, accusing Labor of using recognition to appease protesters.

Portugal, the UK, Australia and Canada joined over 150 countries that now recognise a Palestinian state. The announcements come ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in the week ahead.

Lisbon

Portugal formally recognises Palestinian state

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The United Kingdom, Canada and Australia officially recognized Palestine as a state Sunday, a move that has long been opposed by the U.S. and Israel. More countries are expected to do the same this week as world leaders gather in New York for the U.N. General Assembly.

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US Republicans warn allies over decision to recognise Palestinian state

Britain, Canada and Australia all recognized a Palestinian state on Sunday (September 21) in a move borne out of frustration over the Gaza war and intended to promote a two-state solution, but which is also bound to anger Israel and its main ally, the U.S.

Britain, Canada and Australia all recognize Palestinian state

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Manhattan

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Kyiv

Ukraine Invasion

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Heathrow Airport

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Australia officially recognises state of Palestine

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