The Australian government’s decision to recognize Palestine has been met with strong disapproval from the Trump administration, according to the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. The announcement, made in line with similar commitments by France, Canada, and the UK at the United Nations General Assembly, has sparked a diplomatic stir.
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, now serving as the US Ambassador to Israel, expressed the administration’s sentiments in an interview with 7.30. “There’s an enormous level of disappointment and some disgust,” he stated, noting that while President Trump may not have used those exact words, they encapsulate the administration’s sentiment. “Why would they be doing this? And why would they be doing it now?” he questioned, highlighting the perceived poor timing of the decision.
Diplomatic Fallout and Timing Concerns
Ambassador Huckabee criticized the timing of Australia’s decision, calling it “terrible” and suggesting it could hinder peace negotiations in Gaza. “This is a gift to them, and it’s unfortunate,” he remarked, referring to the potential empowerment of Hamas. He further argued that the move could endanger hostages held by Hamas and complicate efforts for a peaceful resolution.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Australia’s intention to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. This decision aligns with similar moves by other Western nations, yet it has caught the ire of the US, which expected prior consultation. “As Israel’s closest partner, we would have expected that there would have been some heads up,” Huckabee noted.
Reactions from Australian Officials
In response, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated she had informed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio of the government’s intentions as a courtesy. “As a matter of courtesy, I did want to give him advance notice of our announcement,” she explained. Wong has been vocal about the urgency of international action, warning that there would be “no Palestine left” to recognize if the world remained passive.
Her comments have sparked further debate, with Huckabee suggesting that Australia’s decision might inadvertently push Israel towards annexation of the West Bank. “What Australia and the other countries may have done inadvertently is push Israel to do exactly what they’re afraid of,” he claimed.
Implications for Israeli-Palestinian Relations
The Israeli Knesset’s recent non-binding motion calling for the annexation of the West Bank adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has threatened to expand settlements outside Jerusalem, stating, “Those who try to recognize a Palestinian state will receive from us an answer on the ground.”
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that hunger-related deaths since the conflict began in October 2023 have risen to 235, including 106 children. The Trump administration’s role in the conflict has been scrutinized, with Huckabee defending the administration’s actions.
Humanitarian Efforts and Trump’s Role
Responding to criticisms about the Trump administration’s influence on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza, Huckabee stated, “I’m so tired of people blaming Israel for defending themselves.” He highlighted the administration’s efforts to address the humanitarian crisis, emphasizing President Trump’s authorization of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) to deliver aid.
“He was the one who authorised us to create the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation to start feeding people,” Huckabee said, adding that the initiative aimed to prevent Hamas from intercepting aid.
Despite these efforts, the UN reports that more than 1,000 Palestinians have died while seeking aid, and 500,000 people are facing famine, with every child under five at risk of acute malnutrition.
The situation remains tense as international leaders and organizations continue to navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics. With Australia’s decision drawing sharp reactions, the path forward for Israeli-Palestinian relations remains fraught with challenges.
