After Jerusalem decision, pressure for Australia to recognise Palestine

Palestinian activists see the Jerusalem decision as part of a continuum, with the next step being recognition of a Palestinian state.

Last week’s decision by the Australian Government to no longer recognise West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital has prompted questions over whether it will take the next step and recognise Palestine.

The decision was slammed by Israel and Jewish community leaders and even commentators who welcomed Australia’s return to its previous position commented on the poor handling of the issue.

But in the Palestinian community the move was seen as part of a broader move towards support of a Palestinian state.

In June, Australia declined to sign up to a US-led statement on Israel and the Palestinian territories at the United Nations, signalling a more independent stance from the new government.

In September, Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced Australia would double its contribution to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees  from $10 million to $20 million. Australian Jewish groups criticised the move, saying the agency was riddled with corruption and promoted hatred of Israel.

Nasser Mashni, the vice-president of the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network,  believes the government is heading to recognise the state of Palestine.

“We look forward to the Labor Party honouring its commitment at two previous national conferences to recognise the state of Palestine,” he says.

Asked if he thinks the government will follow through, he insists: “It is a given. The Prime Minister and the Labor Party have spoken about the need to honour promises and the promise was to recognise Palestine.”