Albanese Urged to Follow UK on Palestine

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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces mounting pressure to recognize a Palestinian state, following the United Kingdom’s lead, amid growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is under scrutiny to align with the United Kingdom’s push toward recognizing a Palestinian state, as reported by ABC News on July 31, 2025. The UK, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has signaled intentions to acknowledge Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September, unless Israel halts its actions in Gaza. Albanese, who has been in regular contact with Starmer, is reportedly alarmed by Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza, which he has called a breach of international law, citing the prevention of food deliveries as “completely indefensible.”

Despite domestic and international pressure, Albanese remains cautious, emphasizing that recognition must be strategic, not symbolic. He has expressed concerns about ensuring Hamas, a listed terrorist organization, has no role in a future Palestinian state and that such a state does not threaten Israel’s security. “The decision must advance a two-state solution,” Albanese stated, highlighting the need for a viable Palestinian Authority and governance reforms, according to ABC News. This stance aligns with a joint statement from 15 countries, including Australia, welcoming commitments from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to hold elections and exclude Hamas from governance.

Within the Australian Labor Party, there is growing unrest, with figures like Member of Parliament Ed Husic urging immediate recognition, arguing it aligns with Labor’s 2021 policy platform. However, Albanese has resisted rushing the decision, wary of acting without coordination with allies like the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. The Coalition, led by Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, has criticized Albanese’s approach, accusing him of failing to hold Hamas accountable for Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Ley, a former supporter of Palestinian statehood, emphasized that Hamas’s actions exacerbate civilian suffering.

As France becomes the first Group of Seven (G7) nation to recognize Palestine, Australia’s hesitation risks isolating it among Western allies. Albanese’s reluctance to commit to a timeline reflects a delicate balancing act, aiming to avoid domestic backlash while addressing international calls for action. With Gaza’s crisis deepening, the prime minister’s next steps will be closely watched.