Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Cash for the question—for the opportunity to speak about recognition and also, again, to reiterate the same condemnation of Hamas that the government has issued since the horrific events of October 7. I know that Senator Cash only wants to talk about Hamas. I would say to her: I've answered your question and the questions of your colleagues since this war began about our position on Hamas. Hamas is a terrorist organisation. We condemn them. They are a listed terrorist organisation dedicated to the destruction of the State of Israel. We have a very clear position in relation to Hamas.

In relation to recognition, as you would know, all countries, including Arab countries, have made clear that they want to see a reformed Palestinian Authority and wish to see Hamas demilitarised. Countries have made clear that they want the security architecture in the Middle East to ensure the security of Israel. This is where the international community is, this is where the discussion is and this is where the government is engaging.

Why are we engaging on these issues? We're engaging on these issues because we know, as does the rest of the international community—you would have seen the announcement by the United Kingdom, following the announcement also by the President of France—that, if we want long-term peace and security in the Middle East for Israelis and Palestinians alike, we need to deal with the issue of a Palestinian state. That is the best way to ensure stability and peace for both Israelis and Palestinians. So, Senator, I would suggest to you that it might be good to grapple with that reality, because that is where the discussion of the Middle East is internationally and where countries understand— (Time expired)