The Times Australia
The Times World News

.
Times Media

.

Penny Wong floats recognising Palestine ahead of two-state solution to help path to peace

  • Written by Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Foreign Minister Penny Wong has taken Australian policy a modest step towards embracing recognition of a Palestine state ahead of a two-state solution, as a pathway to a lasting Middle East peace.

In a Tuesday speech to an Australian National University national security conference dinner, Wong said the international community was “now considering the question of Palestinian statehood as a way of building momentum towards a two-state solution”.

She quoted British Foreign Secretary David Cameron saying the United Kingdom “will look at the issue of recognising a Palestinian state, including at the United Nations”. Cameron said this could make a two-state solution irreversible.

“There are always those who claim recognition is rewarding an enemy,” Wong said. But she said this was wrong on two counts.

“First, because Israel’s own security depends on a two-state solution.

"There is no long-term security for Israel unless it is recognised by the countries of its region.

"But the normalisation agenda that was being pursued before [the] October 7 [Hamas attacks] cannot proceed without progress on Palestinian statehood,” she said.

Read more: Explainer: what is the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?[1]

“Second, because there is no role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state. Hamas is a terrorist organisation which has the explicit intent of the destruction of the state of Israel and the Jewish people.”

Wong said recognising a Palestinian state, which could only exist beside a secure Israel, did not just offer the Palestinians “an opportunity to realise their aspirations”, but also “strengthens the forces for peace, and undermines extremism”. The extremists included Hamas, Iran and Iran’s other proxies in the region.

“A two-state solution is the only hope to break the endless cycle of violence,” she said.

The Albanese government’s policy has been for a two-state solution, but it has not embraced recognising a Palestinian state ahead of that. The Labor Party’s 2023 national platform goes further. It says Labor:

  • supports the recognition and right of Israel and Palestine to exist as two states within secure and recognised borders

  • calls on the Australian government to recognise Palestine as a state.

In her speech Wong said Israel “must make major and immediate changes” to its military operations, in order to protect civilians, journalists and aid workers.

Earlier this week, the government appointed a former chief of the Australian Defence Force, Mark Binskin, to probe Israel’s investigation of its attack on a World Central Kitchen’s aid convoy in Gaza. Seven people, including Australian Zomi Frankcom, were killed.

Wong said Israel “must comply with the binding orders of the International Court of Justice, including to enable the provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance at scale”.

The foreign minister also expressed dismay at the local divisions the conflict is causing.

“It is disheartening to witness the number of Australians that increasingly struggle to discuss this conflict without condemning their fellow citizens. This imperils our democracy. We have to keep listening to each other; respecting each other.

"But I have heard language demonstrating that people are losing respect for each other’s humanity. Blatant antisemitism and Islamophobia.”

She condemned politicians who were “manipulating legitimate and heartfelt community concern for their own ends.

"The Greens political party is willing to purposely amplify disinformation, exploiting distress in a blatant and cynical play for votes. With no regard for the social disharmony they are fuelling. This is not some game. There are consequences.

"At the same time, [Opposition Leader Peter] Dutton reflexively dismisses concern for Palestinians as ‘Hamas sympathising’. On this, and in his approach to the world, Mr Dutton needs to decide if he wants to be a leader in difficult times – or if he wants to continue being a wrecking ball, making those times even more difficult.”

Read more https://theconversation.com/penny-wong-floats-recognising-palestine-ahead-of-two-state-solution-to-help-path-to-peace-227456

The Times Features

New study suggests weight loss drugs like Ozempic could help with knee pain. Here’s why there may be a link

The drug semaglutide, commonly known by the brand names Ozempic or Wegovy, was originally developed[1] to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. How...

Maintaining Your Pool After a Marble Interior Upgrade

After upgrading your pool with a marble interior, it’s crucial to understand that maintenance is key to preserving its elegance and longevity. You’ll want to regularly skim for d...

Labor using explanatory document to hide true powers of Misinformation Bill

The opinions and commentary of individuals could be deemed misinformation under Labor’s proposed legislation changes, according to James McComish of Victorian Bar. Appearing in...

Hotel Indigo launches limited-edition candle collection inspired by local neighbourhoods across ANZ

Hotel Indigo, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts' luxury and lifestyle portfolio, is releasing a limited-edition candle collection inspired by the unique neighbourhoods its hotel...

Kyndryl ANZ appoints new Head of Strategic Partnerships and Alliances

Former Head of Marketing to lead and grow Kyndryl’s local channel ecosystem and bolster technological capabilities Kyndryl has strengthened its local leadership team with the ...

Posh picnics the Sunshine Coast helicopter picnic tour

Oceanview Helicopters launches Picnic on a Peak celebrating Sunshine Coast local food and views Oceanview Helicopters has launched a new tour in preparation for the upcoming s...

Times Magazine

Your Own Batmobile in the City: Is it Possible?

What do bats and submarines have in common? The smart answer is that they both use sound to get to where they are going. It is more interesting, however, to note why. Bats and submarines both have to deal with dark surroundings with limited visio...

Credit Card Compare Australia on Major Rebuild and Relaunch

David Boyd's entrepreneurial journey is a compelling narrative of innovation, relentless pursuit of goals, and a firm belief in the transformative power of technology. He immigrated from Northern Ireland to Australia in 2003. Boyd became known as a...

Inclusion of the Best Dog Beds to Buy

It can be difficult to find a suitable dog bed that is cosy and long-lasting. It should be durable enough to withstand stains and keep up with your active dog but cosy enough for them to unwind and rest. Even though it might seem like a difficult e...

Make Mom Smile on Her Special Day by Showing Your Love with Mother's Day Flowers

Mother's Day is the perfect time to show your mum just how much she means to you, and what better way to do that than with a beautiful bouquet! Whether you choose a stunning arrangement of roses, lilies, and sunflowers, or a cheerful mix of daisies...

The Hidden Gems of the Sim Plans Market: Finding the Best Deals

Sim plans are the perfect way to stay connected to the people that matter most. Whether you're trying to stay in touch with friends and family or stay up-to-date on the latest news, Sim plans to make it easy and affordable. With the Top Sim plans, yo...

The Benefits of Collaborative Family Law for Amicable Resolutions

Looking to resolve their disputes outside of court often find themselves exploring various options to reach a peaceful resolution. Whether it involves co-parenting arrangements, financial settlements, or future planning, there are methods designe...