Former United States President Donald Trump has strongly criticised Australia's decision to recognise a Palestinian state, expressing disappointment and 'disgust' through US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. The ambassador claimed the move was poorly timed and could negatively affect peace negotiations and the fate of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Australia's recognition of Palestinian statehood would be contingent on Hamas playing no future role, free elections, and demilitarisation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also condemned Australia's stance, calling it 'shameful' and 'absurd', while denying accusations of restricting humanitarian aid to Gaza despite reports of hunger-related deaths and shootings of civilians seeking aid.