Penny Wong says Palestinian statehood recognition is inevitable, warning that “there may be no Palestine left to recognize” without urgent action — drawing praise from pro-Palestinian activists and criticism from the Opposition.
Canberra — Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has declared that recognizing a Palestinian state is “a matter of when, not if,” signaling a shift in tone amid surging pro-Palestinian activism and ongoing Middle East turmoil.
Speaking to ABC’s Radio National Breakfast on Tuesday, Wong said she was not surprised by the massive turnout at a pro-Palestinian rally on Sydney’s iconic Harbor Bridge, describing it as a reflection of public “horror” over the war in Gaza and a desire for a ceasefire. She cautioned:
“There is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognize” if the international community fails to act to preserve a two-state solution.
The remarks came just hours after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a phone call with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. According to a government readout, they discussed urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and the pursuit of a permanent ceasefire. Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s support for a two-state solution, pledged an additional $20 million in aid, and agreed to meet Abbas during next month’s UN General Assembly in New York.
Despite active engagement with Ramallah, Albanese has yet to secure a direct conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Wong confirmed this, stressing that direct dialogue with Israel remains a priority. She noted Australia has already sanctioned Israeli ministers and settlers over actions in Judea and Samaria, while pushing for a diplomatic resolution through multilateral channels.
The Opposition was quick to push back. Shadow Attorney-General Julian Leeser criticized the approach, warning that premature recognition of Palestinian statehood could relieve pressure on Hamas and embolden other militant groups globally. He stressed that efforts should focus on forcing Hamas to release hostages, step away from governing Gaza, and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches civilians on both sides.
With global diplomatic maneuvering intensifying, Australia’s positioning could become a test case for how Western nations navigate the delicate balance between recognizing Palestinian aspirations and keeping pressure on Hamas.
