In a significant dialogue, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently engaged in a phone call with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. This was likely among the first such communications between the two leaders since the conflict in Gaza took a catastrophic turn. The conversation underscored Australia’s enduring commitment to a two-state solution as a means to foster lasting peace in the region.
At the end of the call, Albanese used the opportunity to reiterate Australia’s commitment to a two-state solution. This approach has received increasing attention as the call for protection by the international community continues to rise. Formal recognition of Palestine Abbas said Australia can and should play an “important role” in bringing about peace in the region by moving toward formal recognition of Palestine. This recognition is important because it demonstrates the substantial influence Australia’s diplomatic efforts can have if effectively wielded on the wider geopolitical order.
International Pressure and Humanitarian Support
Australia’s recent increase of $20 million in assistance for organizations delivering food and medical supplies to Gaza reflects its commitment to humanitarian needs amid the ongoing crisis. While this funding will help address immediate suffering amid ongoing violence, many are calling for stronger action from the international community.
Senator Penny Wong, Australia’s Foreign Minister, articulated the urgency of the situation, stating that “there is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognise if the international community don’t move to create that pathway to a two-state solution.” So do most of their global leader counterparts. Instead, they are pushing for a return to prioritizing making peace between Israel and Palestine.
Additionally, Wong confirmed that France, the United Kingdom, and Canada are preparing to advance discussions on Palestinian recognition at a major United Nations meeting set for September. This growing movement among countries will put additional pressure on Australia to explain itself on the issue of Palestinian statehood.
Future Diplomatic Engagements
While the recent call may have sounded cordial, Albanese is clearly starting to feel the heat. It’s time for him to spell out a timeline by which Australia will formally recognize Palestine. The U.S. government officials have suggested that this decision depends not on whether, but rather when it occurs. Albanese has been firm in saying he would only go ahead with recognition if it would genuinely help lead to a peaceful resolution.
Abbas commended Australia for its “positive approach to recognising the state of Palestine,” highlighting the pivotal role that Australia could play in fostering stability in a tumultuous region. The exchange between Albanese and Abbas is a big step forward in restoring Australia’s diplomatic relations. It shows that international cooperation is the key to realizing global peace.
Looking ahead, as Australia continues the process of formally recognising Palestine, further talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are promised. We welcome Minister Wong’s clarification that, to date, she has not spoken with Netanyahu. She stressed having continuous dialogue with members of both parties in order to move the ball forward on peace building efforts.
