Following the lead of the UK, France, and Canada, Australia has announced plans to officially recognize the Palestinian state. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that this decision will be taken after receiving commitments at the United Nations General Assembly and from the Palestinian Authority. He emphasized, “A two-state solution remains humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and end the suffering, conflict, and famine in Gaza.” Albanese further revealed that the recognition comes after assurances from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas that Hamas will have no role in any future state. This decision follows discussions over the past two weeks with leaders from the UK, France, New Zealand, and Japan.