Israeli Officials Condemn Australia's Recognition of Palestinian State

Israel's ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, has criticised the Albanese government's decision to recognise Palestinian statehood, warning it will do nothing to end the war in Gaza.

Appearing on ABC's 7.30, Ambassador Maimon rejected the move as "unilateral recognition" that would not bring a ceasefire or bring the two parties closer to peace. "It will not change anything on the ground," he said. "The only way forward is for the two sides to sit down and negotiate directly."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced earlier on Monday that Australia would join other nations at the United Nations General Assembly in September in recognising a Palestinian state. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the decision was partly prompted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's extension of military operations in Gaza.

President Isaac Herzog echoed Ambassador Maimon's criticism, describing the recognition as a "reward for terror" and a "grave and dangerous mistake" that would neither help Palestinians nor secure the release of hostages. Speaking in Jerusalem at the opening of the new Knesset Museum, Mr Herzog argued such declarations undermined peace efforts and emboldened Hamas.

The criticism comes amid growing concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Palestinian health authorities report more than 60,000 deaths and widespread starvation, with images of malnourished children drawing global attention. Israel has repeatedly denied enforcing a starvation policy, blaming Hamas for obstructing aid.

Ambassador Maimon said Israel had facilitated the passage of 18,000 aid trucks in the past two weeks but was not responsible for distribution inside Gaza. He disputed starvation claims, saying he relied on Israeli statistics and questioned other figures presented during the interview.

Senator Wong said Israel's decision to continue its Gaza offensive was deeply concerning and would "exacerbate a humanitarian disaster" and endanger hostages. She described Australia's recognition of Palestine as "historic" - the first in 77 years - and aimed at advancing a two-state solution.

She added that recognition was conditional on Hamas disarming and a future Palestinian state being demilitarised. While declining to confirm whether recognition would proceed if conditions were unmet, Senator Wong said Australia would work with the international community and the Arab League to press Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza.

"This is the best opportunity to isolate Hamas, break the cycle of violence, and contribute to peace," she said.