“My position on this is very clear. I support the recognition of a Palestinian state,” Abdo said.

Albanese reiterated his support for a two-state solution, referencing a quote from South African anti-apartheid campaigner Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

Palestinian statehood ‘a right’

“It’s the right to self-determination. I would view it as a right, not as just symbolism,” he told SBS News.

Basem Abdo was a staff member for former Labor member Maria Vamvakinou before successfully running for election in her seat. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

Abdo, who has himself visited the West Bank, wants his colleagues to understand the “human element” of war.

“I also remember the brown gaffer tape that lined the windows of homes in Jordan and was meant to protect us from a non-conventional attack… the tape wasn’t much protection, but using it was a ritual that made people feel a little less powerless.”