Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as being in “denial” about the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, following Australia’s announcement to recognize the Palestinian state for the first time. Albanese stated that Australia will recognize the Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly next month, adding to international pressure on Israel after similar announcements from France, Britain, and Canada. The Australian decision is conditional on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including that Hamas will have no role in any future state. The mood in Australia shifted sharply after Israel announced plans for military control of Gaza amid growing reports of hunger and malnutrition among its residents. Tens of thousands marched across Sydney Harbour Bridge demanding aid delivery to Gaza amid the worsening humanitarian crisis.

Neighboring New Zealand is still considering whether to recognize the Palestinian state, a decision that drew sharp criticism from former Prime Minister Helen Clark.