Australia hints at recognition of Palestinian statehood

ANKARA (AA) – Australia hinted Tuesday at recognition of Palestinian statehood, according to media reports.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia would consider supporting a Palestinian state as part of the Mideast peace process.

“The simple truth is that a secure and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians will only come with a two-state solution,” she said at Australian National University’s National Security College “Securing our Future” conference, according to SBS News.

A two-state solution is “the only hope to break the endless cycle of violence,” said Wong. “This is why we are urging all parties to return to the table and support all efforts to advance a political process, including discussions between regional leaders,” she said.

Wong noted that the international community is considering Palestinian statehood as a path to a peaceful two-state solution.

“There are always those who claim recognition is rewarding an enemy. This is wrong,” said Wong.

She said Israel’s security depends on a two-state solution.

“There is no long-term security for Israel unless it is recognized by the countries of its region,” she said. “Second, because there is no role for Hamas in a future Palestinian state,” she further said.