Australia Delays Recognition of Palestine

On July 27, 2025, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese publicly stated at a press conference that the Australian government currently has no immediate plans to recognize the State of Palestine. He emphasized that any diplomatic recognition must be grounded in a “concrete and sustainable peace process” and should only proceed once fundamental security conditions are met. However, he also hinted that Australia may express support at an appropriate time in the future.

A government spokesperson further elaborated in a Guardian live news report that key conditions include the disarmament of Hamas and a willingness by both Israel and Palestine to resume constructive dialogue and negotiations. Without these conditions, premature recognition would be seen as a symbolic gesture lacking substance, potentially hindering the peace process instead of helping it.

Although Foreign Minister Penny Wong has in recent years repeatedly expressed openness to recognizing Palestine, at one point stating that “recognition should no longer be tied to a final peace agreement”, the Prime Minister’s latest remarks reflect a more cautious and observant stance by the government, seeking to avoid premature unilateral decisions amid international divisions.

Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s strong support for the “two-state solution,” stressing that symbolic gestures should not replace practical diplomatic progress. He believes that lasting peace is only achievable if both Israel and Palestine can establish secure and sustainable state systems.