Palestinian Authority Welcomes Australia’s Recognition of Statehood
The Palestinian Authority has welcomed Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state, with Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian saying the move will encourage other nations to follow suit.
Australia’s recognition is conditional on the Palestinian Authority implementing reforms, including demilitarisation, financial transparency, and holding elections.
The PA has committed to these reforms, citing the need for good governance and democratic processes.
Reform Commitments
Foreign Minister Aghabekian stated that reform is a Palestinian demand, and that the PA wants to improve its institutions, financial management, and best practices.
The last Palestinian presidential election was held in 2005, and the last parliamentary election was in 2006.
Aghabekian blamed Israeli restrictions for making it difficult to hold a poll.
International Implications
The PA foreign minister believes Australia’s recognition will make a difference and bring others to recognise the Palestinian state.
She argued that Australia is a weighty country in global affairs and that its recognition will send a clear message that it respects international law and the rights of people to self-determination.
The United States, however, remains opposed to recognising a Palestinian state, with the White House citing the need to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through negotiations.
Israeli Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his plan to occupy Gaza, which many countries fear will lead to increased bloodshed.
He believes recognising a Palestinian state now would be a reward for Hamas after the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
Netanyahu has rejected international condemnation of his plans to seize control of Gaza City.
Palestinian Reaction
In Ramallah, West Bank residents welcomed Australia’s decision, hoping it will bring peace and stability to the region.
Some residents, however, expressed concerns that symbolism would only go so far, and that the Palestinian population remains under threat from Israeli forces.
The shift in Australian foreign policy comes 22 months into the war in Gaza, where local health authorities say more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed.
The PA foreign minister believes recognition brings a glimpse of hope to the Palestinian people, who have been suffering immensely for seven decades.