Hamas welcomes Albo’s pledge to recognise Palestine state

AI Image of Albo and Hamas shaking hands

Australia‘s decision to recognize a Palestinian state has ignited a fierce political debate, with the Coalition accusing the Labor government of emboldening the terrorist group Hamas.¹ The controversy follows reports that a senior Hamas official praised Australia’s move.²

Albanese has been clear that this recognition is predicated on commitments received from the Palestinian Authority (PA), which governs parts of the occupied West Bank.⁶ These commitments include a pledge that Hamas will have no role in a future Palestinian state, as well as promises to demilitarize Gaza and hold elections.⁷ The government has stressed that its goal is to “isolate Hamas” and support moderate voices for peace in the region.⁸

The Coalition’s criticism intensified after reports emerged that a senior Hamas official praised Australia’s decision, calling it “courageous.”¹⁰ The opposition has seized on this, saying that it proves the government’s move has had the opposite effect of what was intended. The Coalition has also pledged that if they win the next election, they will reverse the recognition of a Palestinian state.¹¹

The Broader Context

This diplomatic move by Australia comes amid a growing trend among Western nations. Countries like France, Britain, and Canada have also indicated their intention to recognize a Palestinian state.¹² The Australian government has stated that it is joining this international momentum to pressure both Israel and the Palestinian Authority toward a lasting peace.

Based on the information available, the international reaction to Australia’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state has been mixed:

• Hamas: A senior official from Hamas praised the Australian government’s decision, calling it “courageous” and suggesting that Hamas’s actions, including the October 7 attacks, have helped draw attention to the Palestinian cause. The Australian government, in response, stated that Hamas is trying to “manipulate facts” and that the decision is part of an effort to isolate the terrorist group.

• Israeli Government: The Israeli embassy in Australia strongly condemned the move, with Ambassador Amir Maimon stating that “rewarding those who use terror as a political tool sends the dangerous message that violence brings political gain.”

• Palestinian Authority: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas thanked Prime Minister Albanese for Australia’s humanitarian efforts and commitment to a two-state solution. The Palestinian Authority’s representative office in Australia also welcomed the decision.

• Other Western Nations: Australia’s move follows similar announcements from countries such as France, Britain, and Canada, who have also signaled their intention to recognize Palestinian statehood. This indicates a growing momentum among some Western powers to take diplomatic action on the issue.

• Arab League: The decision is supported by the Arab League, which has called on Hamas to disarm and give up power in Gaza to facilitate progress toward a two-state solution.