Australian opposition would revoke Palestine recognition if elected, says opposition leader

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley says a future Coalition government would overturn Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state, formally opposing the Albanese government’s decision announced on Monday. In a statement reported by ABC, Ley confirmed the Coalition’s shadow cabinet had resolved to reject the recognition, arguing it would not bring about peace in Gaza or secure the release of hostages. "The Coalition would have never made this call and we do not agree with it. A Coalition government would only recognise a Palestinian State at the conclusion of a proper peace process," Ley said. "

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley says a future Coalition government would overturn Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state, formally opposing the Albanese government’s decision announced on Monday. In a statement reported by

ABC,

Ley confirmed the Coalition’s shadow cabinet had resolved to reject the recognition, arguing it would not bring about peace in Gaza or secure the release of hostages.

"The Coalition would have never made this call and we do not agree with it. A Coalition government would only recognise a Palestinian State at the conclusion of a proper peace process," Ley said.

"There can be no recognition without peace. There could be no reward for terrorism and there can be no breaking with our closest ally."

Ley made the remarks during a press conference in Albury, where she was asked if a Coalition government would reverse the recognition. While she initially avoided a direct answer, she reiterated that the Coalition would not have taken the decision. "To get ahead of a proper peace process is against the interests of the Palestinian people who deserve a strong, committed, dedicated leadership that cares about their welfare and cares about their future," she said.

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A short time later, in a joint statement with Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Michaelia Cash, Ley confirmed the Coalition would indeed revoke recognition if elected.

"The Shadow Cabinet also resolved that recognition would be revoked by a Coalition government," the statement read.

"Anthony Albanese has broken with longstanding bipartisan foreign policy and has failed to adequately explain how it will deliver peace and support Australia's national interests, especially when our most important security ally in the United States is opposed."