Albanese described the October 7 Hamas attacks as “horrific” and called for the return of hostages. “We stand with Jewish people around the world, who feel the cold shadow of history’s darkest chapter in any act of antisemitism,” he said.

Albanese calls for Israel to accept responsibility over ‘humanitarian catastrophe’

Roughly 150 of the UN’s member states, or more than three-quarters, now recognise its statehood.

The government says its decision to recognise Palestinian Statehood is conditional on Hamas having no role in the future state and is based on assurances from the Palestinian Authority that it will demilitarise, hold democratic elections and reform governance, finance and education.

US President meeting still in the air

“And frankly, he believes it is a reward to Hamas. He believes these decisions is just more talk and not enough action from some of our friends and allies.”