Australia has announced it will formally recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese describing a two-state solution as the best hope for ending the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Albanese emphasised that Australia's decision is based on assurances from the Palestinian Authority that Hamas will not have a role in any future Palestinian state. The move comes amid growing international support for Palestinian statehood, with more than 145 United Nations member countries now recognising or planning to recognise it.

Israel has strongly criticised the decision, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling international recognition of Palestinian statehood 'shameful' and warning it would not bring peace. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with tens of thousands of Palestinians killed and widespread starvation reported. Australia joins a global movement pushing for a resolution to the conflict, and neighbouring New Zealand is also considering recognition in the near future.