The ministry officially informed the Australian ambassador, Ralph King, of this decision, according to Israeli media. The ministry explained in a statement that the decision came in response to recent Australian statements supporting the recognition of the State of Palestine, along with Australia’s refusal to grant visas to Israeli officials without clear justifications.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced last Monday his country’s intention to recognize at the next United Nations General Assembly meeting. Albanese stated in a press conference, “Australia will recognize the State of Palestine. Australia will acknowledge the Palestinian people’s right to their own state, based on the commitments received by Australia from the Palestinian Authority.”
He mentioned that he discussed the issue with the leaders of Japan, Britain, New Zealand, and Israel. He emphasized that the situation in Gaza “has surpassed the world’s worst fears.”
Albanese pointed out that “one of the pivotal moments leading us to today’s stance is the historic announcement by Arab countries following the Two-State Solution Conference, chaired by Saudi Arabia and France in New York.” Albanese referred to the “New York Declaration” issued by the Two-State Solution Conference, chaired by Saudi Arabia and France and hosted by the United Nations at the end of July, where Paris reiterated its intention to recognize the Palestinian state, followed by similar announcements from Britain and Canada.
