The Palestinian Authority has called on Australia to contribute to an international peacekeeping force in Gaza, a move aimed at stabilizing the region and supporting the fragile ceasefire. In a statement made from the de facto Palestinian capital of Ramallah, Deputy Foreign Minister Omar Awadallah emphasized the need for swift action from the international community to establish a United Nations-endorsed force to help restore law and order in the war-torn enclave.
Awadallah highlighted that the presence of Australian troops could play a significant role in the region’s stability. He stated, “We believe that we need to see principled countries like Australia involved in a stabilisation force because we don’t want any kind of trusteeship or new kind of occupation for the Palestinian territory.” The deputy foreign minister underscored the importance of international support, particularly in training Palestinian security personnel.
Australia’s Potential Involvement
During a recent engagement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese indicated that the Australian government would explore ways to contribute to the international force in Gaza. Last week, Canberra announced it would send an Australian Defence Force liaison officer to the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Centre in Israel to support stabilization efforts in the region.
Awadallah expressed hope that Australia’s involvement would help reassure Palestinians that the international stabilisation force aims to genuinely stabilize the situation rather than impose another form of occupation. He remarked, “An Australian presence would help convince Palestinians that the stabilisation force is really coming to stabilise the situation.”
In a broader context, Awadallah referenced US President Donald Trump, suggesting that if he were to secure a lasting peace in Gaza, he would deserve a Nobel Peace Prize. This statement reflects the complex dynamics surrounding peace negotiations that have been ongoing for years.
Political Landscape and Future Governance
Awadallah also addressed the political landscape within Gaza, emphasizing that there is no role for the militant group Hamas in future governance. He stated, “They accepted Trump’s plan, and that makes clear they have nothing to do with governance and security in Gaza.” This remark comes in the wake of Hamas’ surprise attacks on Israel on October 7, which resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties.
Looking ahead, the Palestinian Authority has committed to holding elections in the coming year, which would mark the first electoral process in over two decades. Awadallah urged for international support, particularly from Australia, to facilitate the electoral process. He noted the necessity for Palestinians in East Jerusalem to participate in these elections to ensure their legitimacy, a challenge complicated by Israel’s claim over the entire city.
The Albanese government has indicated it would take practical steps to acknowledge Palestinian statehood, such as the potential opening of an embassy in Ramallah, contingent upon the Palestinian Authority meeting specific milestones, including the elections.
Further, discussions have emerged regarding education reform in Palestine, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong stating plans to collaborate with Indonesia on this initiative. Awadallah pointed out the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to developing a modern education system, while also maintaining its narrative regarding historical facts. He countered accusations that the Palestinian curriculum promotes violence, asserting that the true source of incitement stems from the Israeli occupation itself.
Awadallah acknowledged the significance of Australia’s recent recognition of Palestinian statehood at the United Nations, stating it resonated deeply with the Palestinian populace. “It touched not only the minds but the hearts of the Palestinian people,” he remarked. He called on Australians to continue advocating for Palestinian self-determination, emphasizing that the struggle for rights and recognition persists even with a temporary cessation of hostilities.
In conclusion, while the ceasefire in Gaza may provide a momentary reprieve, Awadallah stressed that the broader conflict endures. “The aggression on the Palestinian people did not finish yet,” he noted, reinforcing the ongoing need for international involvement and support for the Palestinian cause.
