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Penny Wong on Palestine Recognition

Measured advocate (moderate)

TL;DR

Penny Wong supports the recognition of a Palestinian state as a necessary element for a durable two-state solution.

Key Points

  • She signed a joint statement with 14 other countries on a Gaza "day after" plan that excludes Hamas from governance, referencing commitments to a demilitarised Palestinian state.

  • The government's view, which she shares, is that recognition of a Palestinian state is a question of "when, not if" for Australia.

  • She previously labelled Israel's revocation of Australian diplomat visas an "unjustified reaction" after Australia recognised Palestine in August.

Summary

Foreign Minister Penny Wong supports the recognition of a Palestinian state, viewing it as a crucial step toward achieving a lasting, peaceful two-state solution in the Middle East. Her position aligns with the government's broader strategy, which involves international coordination to build momentum for a political resolution and a ceasefire in Gaza. This stance was evidenced when she joined 14 other nations in a joint statement to work on a "day after" plan for Gaza that explicitly excludes Hamas from Palestinian governance.

While the government believes recognition is a matter of "when, not if," it links the timing to a moment that best contributes to a peaceful outcome, indicating a measured approach rather than immediate unilateral action. This position has caused diplomatic friction, including an earlier instance where Israel revoked Australian diplomat visas following Australia's decision to recognise Palestine, which Wong described as an "unjustified reaction."

Frequently Asked Questions

Penny Wong currently supports the recognition of a Palestinian state as a necessary component for achieving a lasting two-state solution. She views this move as part of a broader international effort to create momentum for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Her position is that recognition is inevitable, but the timing must be carefully chosen for maximum positive impact.

The available information suggests her position is consistent in supporting recognition as a pathway to peace, although the timing of such an announcement has been carefully managed by the government. She has previously described Israel's reaction to the recognition move as an "unjustified reaction," indicating a firm line on the policy itself. The general framework of supporting recognition remains established.

She is part of a government that believes recognition is a matter of "when, not if." The Prime Minister and senior figures, including Wong, have indicated they are waiting for the right moment to announce recognition. This moment must be one that best contributes to advancing a peaceful resolution between Israelis and Palestinians.