The Coalition says Anthony Albanese has been “shamed” for his decision to recognise a state of Palestine, after the move received praise by terror group Hamas, whose October 7 attack on Israel triggered the conflict in Gaza.
In a statement by Hamas to the ABC, the terror group applauded the Albanese government’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state, adding “while recognition has come late, better late than never”.
“Such a move reflects a growing global awareness of the necessity to end the injustice suffered by our people for decades,” Hamas media director Ismail Al-Thawabta said.
“We call on the Australian government to translate this recognition into concrete actions — by exerting diplomatic pressure to end the Israeli occupation.”
Shadow Foreign Minister Michaelia Cash said the government’s intention to recognise Palestine has emboldened Hamas.
“All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter,” Senator Cash said in a statement.
“When terrorists are cheering Australia’s foreign policy it is clear proof it is wrong.
“Mr Albanese should explain whether he’ll still pursue recognition knowing it has the clear endorsement of terrorists.”
The Coalition has vowed to revoke recognition of Palestine if it wins power at the next election.
On Tuesday, the prime minister claimed Hamas would oppose the move to recognise a Palestinian state, because they would have no role in its future governance.
The government has rejected accusations by Israel that recognition of a Palestinian state at September’s United Nations General Assembly would be a “reward” to Hamas.
The split from a longstanding bipartisan position to recognise Palestine only after a two-state solution is negotiated has prompted fury from the Coalition, who say it will not further peace in the region.
Mr Albanese reasserted on Wednesday that Hamas would be excluded from the process of recognising Palestine, as the international community works with the Palestinian Authority to reintroduce democratic elections to the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
“The Arab League, the countries around the region, as well as the international community have made it very clear Hamas has no role,” he said.
The moment the PM gained confidence Australia could recognise a Palestinian state
Hamas said in its statement that the move by Australia was a “positive step” towards achieving its aims.
“We welcome Australia’s decision to recognise the state of Palestine, and consider it a positive step towards the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” the statement read.
Hamas has previously said it would be prepared to step back from any future governance role in Gaza, but is refusing to disarm while the war in the strip continues and before a Palestinian state is created.
Speaking on ABC Afternoon Briefing, frontbencher Amanda Rishworth said it was not surprising Hamas would attempt to take advantage of Australia’s announcement.
“Hamas will use whatever they can to promote propaganda,” Ms Rishworth said.
“To be very, clear the work that has been agreed to is that Hamas will not have a role in the future [of] Palestine.”