Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has engaged in a significant phone conversation with Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the Palestinian Authority, during which they addressed various pressing issues related to the Gaza situation. Albanese has committed to meeting Abbas at the upcoming global leaders’ summit next month. The discussion focused on key topics, including the urgent need for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, the establishment of a lasting ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the pursuit of a two-state solution.
Following this call, Australia announced an additional $20 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza, which Abbas expressed gratitude for. The two leaders have agreed to further their collaboration and will convene during the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September. Notably, the UK, Canada, and France have indicated intentions to recognise Palestinian statehood contingent on governance reforms.
Albanese faces mounting pressure regarding potential recognition of Palestinian statehood, with his government hinting that the timing is a matter of “when, not if.” Foreign Minister Penny Wong has stated that efforts are underway to coordinate with other nations ahead of the UN meeting.
Importantly, Albanese has made it clear that Hamas would not have a role in any future Palestinian state. Meanwhile, there is an emphasis on the need for communication with Israel, as Albanese seeks to connect with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, although this conversation has yet to take place.
In the humanitarian crisis, the World Health Organization has reported an alarming spike in starvation-related deaths and malnutrition rates in Gaza. Recent UN figures indicate that at least 1,300 Palestinians have died in their attempts to access food since late May.
Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Australia advocating for Palestinian rights, with demonstrators urging the government to impose sanctions on Israel. These protests have aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian issues affecting Gaza.
The urgency of these discussions and actions reflects the complex and sensitive nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with international leaders calling for a resolution that respects the rights and needs of both sides.