Coalition accuses Labor of emboldening Hamas, after terror group praises move to recognise Palestinian state
In comments reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, the terror group reportedly applauded the Albanese government's decision to recognise a Palestinian state and praised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's "courage".
Shadow Foreign Minister Michaelia Cash said the move has emboldened Hamas.
"All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter," Senator Cash said in a statement.
"When terrorists are cheering Australia's foreign policy it is clear proof it is wrong.
"Mr Albanese should explain whether he'll still pursue recognition knowing it has the clear endorsement of terrorists."
The Coalition has vowed to revoke recognition of Palestine if it wins power at the next election.
On Tuesday, the prime minister claimed Hamas would oppose the move to recognise a Palestinian state, because they would have no role in its future governance.
The government has rejected accusations by Israel that recognition of a Palestinian state at September's United Nations General Assembly would be a "reward" to Hamas.
The split from a longstanding bipartisan position to recognise Palestine only after a two-state solution is negotiated has prompted fury from the Coalition, who say it will not further peace in the region.
Mr Albanese reasserted today that Hamas would be excluded from the process of recognising Palestine, as the international community works with the Palestinian Authority to reintroduce democratic elections to the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
"The Arab League, the countries around the region, as well as the international community have made it very clear Hamas has no role," he said.
In comments reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, however, a senior Hamas official labelled the move an "important step" towards achieving its aims.
"We welcome Australia's decision to recognise the state of Palestine, and consider it an important step towards achieving justice for our people and securing their legitimate rights," Sheikh Hassan Yousef said.
"This position reflects political courage and a commitment to the values of justice and the right of peoples to self-determination."
Hamas has vowed not to surrender in Gaza until Palestine is recognised.
Speaking on ABC Afternoon Briefing, frontbencher Amanda Rishworth said it was not surprising Hamas would attempt to take advantage of Australia's announcement.
"Hamas will use whatever they can to promote propaganda," Ms Rishworth said.
"To be very, clear the work that has been agreed to is that Hamas will not have a role in the future [of] Palestine."
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