In a significant move, France is poised to become the first G7 nation to officially recognise Palestine as an independent state during the UN General Assembly meeting in September. This decision, led by President Emmanuel Macron, aims to exert additional diplomatic pressure on Israel amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The announcement comes as the situation in Gaza deteriorates, with increasing violence and severe restrictions on aid. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia has stated that the country will not follow suit in recognising Palestine, highlighting that any decision on this matter would depend on the demilitarisation of Hamas and the establishment of a viable two-state solution. He expressed his belief that recognition of a Palestinian state should not occur in a vacuum and emphasised the need to ensure that any future Palestinian state does not threaten Israel’s existence.
On ABC’s Insiders, Albanese articulated that Australia supports a two-state solution but clarified that there are no immediate plans to recognise Palestinian sovereignty. He posed the rhetorical question of how to include Hamas in the dialogue while safeguarding Israel’s interests.
The backdrop to this international discussion includes escalating tensions regarding Israel’s restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, where reports indicate hundreds of Palestinians have died trying to access basic necessities. Albanese condemned Israel’s blockade, asserting that it constitutes a breach of international law, particularly in light of civilians losing their lives while waiting for food and water.
The conflict, which erupted following Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, has led to staggering civilian casualties, with estimates suggesting up to 80,000 Palestinians may have died as violence continues unabated.
As diplomatic discussions escalate, the world watches closely, questioning whether greater recognition of Palestinian statehood could influence peace talks and the region’s future stability.