Australia is poised to make a historic and consequential diplomatic pivot. On this September, the country intends to debut the Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly. Escalating, unprecedented violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza make this imperative. Palestinian health authorities have reported over 60,000 deaths since the outbreak of the conflict. Israeli officials, from Ambassador Amir Maimon to President Isaac Herzog, adamantly oppose Australia’s anticipated recognition. Finally, they say that this proposed action will not serve the cause of peace in the region.
Over the last two weeks, no more than 18,000 trucks have entered Gaza. They have provided life-giving humanitarian assistance to sustain and feed people living under catastrophic circumstances. Viral photographs of malnourished children and headlines about starvation have sent shockwaves around the world. The situation has prompted Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, to call for action given the lack of potential for a ceasefire.
Australia’s Shift in Policy
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese just dropped a historic bombshell. It is the first time in 77 years that Australia will recognize a Palestinian state. Wong underscored that this recognition seeks to further isolate Hamas and work toward a two-state solution. She stated, “This is the best opportunity to isolate Hamas, to contribute towards a two-state solution, to break the cycle of violence.”
Wong’s letter criticized Israel’s escalating military offensive in Gaza and announcement of plans to occupy Gaza City. She characterized this action as morally reprehensible and sure to worsen the humanitarian catastrophe. Wong said that “it will further inflame the conflict” and “puts the lives of hostages at risk.”
Commenting on Australia’s recognition in response to the award, Maimon dismissed the idea that recognition would help bring about peace. He argued that these proclamations do nothing but encourage terrorism.
“Recognising a Palestinian state now is a grave mistake,” – Isaac Herzog
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is catastrophic. Despite the ebb and flow of ceasefires, recent reports have confirmed that 100 children per day are dying from starvation over the last 3 months. Photos of starving children have spread across social media like wildfire, inciting global outrage. One heart-wrenching photo shows a young child lying down, his rib cage exposed from acute malnutrition.
Maimon categorically rejected the possibility that Israel had adopted a policy of starvation. He even claimed that though Israel allows the passage of aid, it is not responsible for where that aid goes. He stated, “Israel is doing its utmost in facilitating the transfer, we’re not responsible for the distribution.”
Wong’s remarks point to a grim, in-the-trenches reality. She pointed out that “100 children in Gaza have died of starvation in recent months,” questioning the veracity of Maimon’s claims regarding aid distribution.
“It will not change anything on the ground, it will not bring a ceasefire, it will not bring the two parties closer,” – Penny Wong
The Role of Hamas
Ambassador Maimon attributed responsibility for the humanitarian crisis primarily to Hamas. He claimed that the separatist group has impeded relief from reaching those who need it most. He said, “It’s very important to recognise the role of Hamas — the negative role that Hamas — in preventing aid to reach all those needed Palestinians.”
This claim has fueled contentious discussions over the obligations of different actors in the current hostilities. Wong agrees on the importance of accountability. As she points out, Australia’s acknowledgement of Palestine is intended to encourage dialogue and peace, not escalate conflict.
“These declarations, by Australia and other countries, are a reward for terror, a prize for the enemies of freedom, liberty, and democracy,” – Isaac Herzog
The never-ending conflict has bred a vicious cycle of violence that many feel desperately requires outside intervention. As global leaders respond to the deteriorating situation in Gaza, Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood represents a significant shift aimed at addressing these humanitarian concerns while navigating complex diplomatic relations.
