The Australian government’s recent decision to also recognize a Palestinian state has ignited a firestorm between Australian political parties. Coalition members accuse the Labor party of emboldening Hamas, the militant group that recently praised the announcement. Amanda Rishworth, a leading member of the opposition Labor party, acknowledged Hamas’ strategic maneuver. She explained how it was incumbent upon them to seize the moment with Australia’s pivot in foreign policy.
Rishworth’s logic was simple—if a terrorist ever praises a country’s policies, they’d better pray those policies aren’t misguided. This sort of endorsement should put grave doubts on the course those policies are going. The October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and the Coalition argues that this recognition could further complicate the already strained situation.
Coalition’s Fury Over Government Decision
Michaelia Cash, a senior Coalition member, expressed outrage over the government’s decision to recognize Palestine, claiming it has emboldened Hamas. She added that every Australian should be outraged. She calls it a “massive propaganda victory” delivered to Hamas by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter.” – Michaelia Cash
The Coalition says that this departure is a significant break from decades of bipartisan support. Historically, this approach argued that Palestinian recognition should happen only after there was a two-state solution in place. Cash’s comments are an indication of the tremendous fear of the opposition about what passage of this foreign policy change would mean.
Labor Party’s Defense and Future Considerations
In reply to the Coalition’s criticisms, Rishworth reasserted with conviction the need for clarity. He reaffirmed that Hamas would have no part in the governance of a future Palestinian state. Hamas, she said, will take all opportunities that present themselves to further its agenda. Last but not least, she warned against overreading their responses.
“Hamas will use whatever they can to promote propaganda.” – Amanda Rishworth
Albanese further stressed his motion. He added that the Arab League and international community are in agreement on keeping Hamas out of any future talks regarding the fate of Palestine. He stated, “To be very clear, the work that has been agreed to is that Hamas will not have a role in the future [of] Palestine.”
International Context and Implications
The move comes after more than a decade of advocacy from the global community. They are working hard with the Palestinian Authority to restore democratic elections to the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Australian government has doubled down on its efforts against the vote, even after Israel’s blistering condemnation. Israel has denounced the recognition as a “reward” to Hamas.
Ismail Al-Thawabta, the media director of Hamas, commended Australia for recognizing Palestine. He contended that by granting this recognition, the United Nations is reflecting an increasing international consciousness to the historic injustices that Palestinians have endured.
“While recognition has come late, better late than never.” – Ismail Al-Thawabta
“Such a move reflects a growing global awareness of the necessity to end the injustice suffered by our people for decades.” – Ismail Al-Thawabta
