Israel Reacts to Australia’s Palestine Move

Israel’s ambassador to Australia accused Canberra of rewarding terrorism after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his country officially recognized a Palestinian state in September.

Australia is the last major country to announce the decision to recognize the state of Palestine, after the United Kingdom, France and Canada, in the midst of the worsening of the disastrous situation in Gaza, because Israel waged war against the Hamas militant group.

Albanese said that “two -state solution was the basis of peace and security for peoples of the region”, although Australian recognition is accompanied by certain conditions, including the demilitarization of Gaza and democratic elections.

“Peace is built by putting an end to terror, without rewarding it,” Israeli ambassador in Australia said Monday.

“By recognizing a Palestinian state while Hamas continues to kill, kidnap and reject peace, Australia undermines the security of Israel, derails negotiations hostage and puts a victory to those who oppose coexistence.”

Maimon continued: “Let’s be clear: this decision will not change reality on the ground. Peace is not obtained by declarations; it is carried out when those who have chosen terrorism abandonment and when violence and incentive end.

“The reward of those who use terror as a political tool send the dangerous message that violence brings political gains.

“By now recognizing a Palestinian state, Australia raises the position of Hamas, a group which he recognizes as a terrorist organization, while weakening the cause of those who work to put an end to violence and to achieve authentic and lasting peace.”

This is a development article. Updates to follow.