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Melbourne, August 8 — Following in the footsteps of France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, Australia is now actively considering recognizing Palestine as an independent state. An announcement may come before next month’s United Nations General Assembly session.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed this on Thursday, saying it was a sovereign decision that did not require approval from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Responding to a question, Albanese said his government would make the decision independently in Australia’s national interest. Pressure on Australia has increased since France, the UK, and Canada announced plans to recognize Palestine.
The Australian government has stated that recognition will come with certain conditions, including ensuring Israel’s security, Hamas relinquishing control of Gaza, and reforms within the Palestinian Authority.
According to official sources, Albanese has already discussed the matter with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
More than 140 countries have already recognized Palestine as a state. Among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, only China and Russia have done so. If France and the UK proceed with recognition in September, the United States will be the only one left.