UPDATE: America’s ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, has voiced strong opposition to Australia’s decision to officially recognize Palestine, stating the US is “disappointed” and “disgusted” by the announcement. The comments, made during an interview on ABC’s 7.30 program, come just days after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed plans to recognize Palestine at a United Nations General Assembly meeting in September.
Huckabee expressed his shock over the timing of Australia’s statehood declaration, suggesting it could further complicate the already tense negotiations between Israel and Palestine. “What Australia and the other countries may have done inadvertently is to push Israel towards doing exactly what they’re afraid of,” he stated. His remarks reflect a wider concern regarding the impact of Australia’s decision on the peace process, which many fear could be set back by weeks or even months.
The recognition of Palestine comes in the wake of escalating violence, particularly following the attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people in Israel and the taking of around 250 hostages. This backdrop has heightened tensions, with Huckabee emphasizing that the US received “no heads up” about Australia’s move.
Despite the backlash, Federal Minister Mark Butler defended the government’s position, claiming it was a well-considered decision aimed at breaking the cycle of violence. He stated, “At the end of the day, this is the ambassador to Israel – his job is to manage the relationship between America and Israel.” Butler insisted that the US was informed prior to the announcement, contradicting Huckabee’s assertion.
The international response has been mixed, with several Western allies, including the UK, France, and Canada, also planning to recognize Palestine under specific conditions. Nearly 150 out of 193 UN member states have already acknowledged the state of Palestine, signaling a significant shift in global diplomatic relations.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains critical, with local health authorities reporting nearly 62,000 Palestinian deaths, including 18,000 children, due to the ongoing conflict. The UN warns that 2.1 million people in Gaza face severe food insecurity, with 470,000 experiencing catastrophic conditions.
Prime Minister Albanese has stated that Australia’s recognition of Palestine is contingent on Hamas having no role in any future Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict. Meanwhile, the opposition Liberal Party has vowed to reverse Australia’s recognition if they win the next election, indicating ongoing political divisions over this sensitive issue.
As this situation continues to develop, the implications of Australia’s decision on international relations and the peace process remain to be seen. Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent matter.
