Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has written to a group of Republicans in the United States to inform them that a future Coalition government would revoke Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state.
Overnight, Ley also spoke with Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, where she reiterated her opposition to recognising Palestinian statehood.
Ley’s intervention came as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese opted to deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, speaking of Australia’s choice to recognise Palestinian statehood.
“Recognising the aspirations of the Palestinian people is about more than a seat — a voice and a vote in the councils of the world. It is about real hope for a place to call home,” Albanese said in his address.
“This is the same hope that sustained generations of Jewish people. The same hope that binds us all to our countries and cultures, and drives us to want a better life for our children.”
On Sunday, the Australian government formally recognised Palestine jointly with the United Kingdom and Canada.
“Right now, Gaza is in the grip of a humanitarian catastrophe, and the Israeli government must accept its share of responsibility,” Albanese said.
Sussan Ley’s letter
Sussan Ley’s letter to Republicans came in response to a joint letter from 25 senators and members of US Congress, who condemned Australia’s decision to recognise Palestine. The joint letter was also targeted at the UK, Canada and France.
The Republicans warned that Australia may face “punitive measures” from the US if it moved ahead.
“Proceeding with recognition will put your country at odds with long-standing U.S. policy and interests and may invite punitive measures in response,” they wrote.
In her reply letter, Ley said the Opposition opposed the decision by the Albanese government and would reverse it if they returned to government.
“It is our view that Australia’s national interest is best served through a two-state solution underscored by America’s proactive engagement in the region,” Ley wrote.
“The path to a two-state solution can only be achieved after Hamas has been removed from power in Gaza and all hostages have been released, not before.”
On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Ley’s intervention was not in Australia’s interest.
“Australia is strongest when our country speaks with one voice, and I think Australians know that, and it is a pity that Sussan Ley does not,” Wong said.
“It is possible to back Australia and still be an effective opposition. And really, it’s time that Ms Ley and the Liberals understood that. We know we’re strongest when we speak with one voice. We all understand that as Australians and the opposition should understand that too.”