URGENT UPDATE: Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh has accused the Labor Party of “hoodwinking” Australians regarding the nation’s role in the recently announced peace deal between Israel and Hamas. This dramatic assertion follows US President Donald Trump‘s announcement on Friday that the first phase of a peace agreement was reached, which aims to secure the release of all hostages and initiate a partial troop withdrawal from Gaza.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterized the deal as a “much-needed step” towards ending the ongoing conflict, suggesting that Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state has contributed to this significant diplomatic breakthrough. However, McIntosh criticized Labor’s claims, stating on ABC’s Insiders program on Sunday, “I find it quite extraordinary, but pretty typical, of Labor to be hoodwinking Australians to claim some of this.”
In her remarks, McIntosh emphasized that the Trump administration previously expressed discontent over Australia’s stance on Palestinian recognition. “To come now and say that we are out of step with the rest of the world… they’ve been out of step with our greatest ally for some time,” she stated, indicating that Labor’s efforts to assert influence in the peace negotiations might be politically motivated ahead of an upcoming US trip.
Trump remarked, “Israel can’t fight the world,” highlighting the global pressure surrounding the conflict. McIntosh agreed, noting, “There’s been a lot of global effort and concern on Israel,” but reiterated that Australia should not take undue credit for the breakthrough. “The government didn’t need to make that claim. They could have been quiet about it and just accepted that this is Trump’s moment,” she said.
When asked by host David Speers whether it is acceptable for Australia to maintain a different stance from the US regarding a two-state solution, McIntosh affirmed, “We’re our own sovereign country. We can have our own opinions. It doesn’t mean we’re not standing with our greatest allies. But we’ve had our position for a very long time.”
As tensions continue and the situation evolves, all eyes are on the Australian government’s next steps in response to both the peace agreement and the criticism from opposition leaders. The implications for Australia’s foreign policy and its relationship with the US will be closely monitored as developments unfold in the coming days.
