Israeli Ambassador reacts to Palestine announcement

“By recognising a Palestinian state while Hamas continues to kill, kidnap, and reject peace, Australia undermines Israel’s security, derails hostage negotiations, and hands a victory to those who oppose coexistence,” Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon said on Monday.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced earlier on Monday that Australia will recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

“This is an opportunity to deliver self determination for the people of Palestine in a way that isolates Hamas, disarms it and drives it out of the region once and for all,” Albanese said.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said “we can’t keep waiting for the end of a peace process that has ground to a halt”.

“We made clear we would recognise Palestine when it would best contribute momentum to peace,” Wong said. “We know that two states is the key. It is the key to a just peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”