Prime Minister Anthony Albanese deflects questions on Trump’s Gaza comments, reaffirming Australia’s support for a two-state solution

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has refrained from commenting on Donald Trump’s shocking remarks about Gaza, where the former US President vowed to forcibly relocate its people and “level” the territory. Speaking to reporters at Parliament House, Albanese reiterated Australia’s steadfast support for a two-state solution but avoided engaging with Trump’s controversial plans.

The remarks came shortly after Trump’s extraordinary White House press conference, where he suggested that the US would “take over” Gaza, moving Palestinian people elsewhere and completely reshaping the area. Trump’s declaration, made alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was described as an audacious shift in US policy, one that critics argue could breach international law. Netanyahu welcomed the proposal, but it was swiftly condemned by nations such as Saudi Arabia.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Albanese chose not to offer a direct response to Trump’s statement. “I’m not going to give a daily commentary on statements by the US president,” the Prime Minister told reporters, stressing that his role was to uphold Australia’s position on the global stage. “My job is to support Australia’s position. Australians are concerned about local issues like Medicare and education.”

Albanese pointed out that Australia’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has remained consistent, stressing that Australia has long supported a two-state solution. “We take considered positions on international matters, in line with our values,” he said. His comments highlighted Australia’s longstanding support for both Israel’s right to exist and the establishment of a Palestinian state.

When asked repeatedly whether he would condemn Trump’s new approach to Gaza, Albanese held firm, refusing to wade into the controversy. “The Australian position is the same as it was this morning, as it was last year, as it was 10 years ago,” he affirmed, pointing out that the creation of two states has been a bipartisan policy for decades.

Australia, according to Albanese, has not received any requests from the US to participate in the rebuilding of Gaza. “We’ve supported a ceasefire, supported the release of hostages, and supported getting aid into Gaza. That is consistent with what Australia has always done,” he added.

While the international community remains divided on Trump’s rhetoric, with some calling it a violation of international law, Albanese’s refusal to comment on the specifics shows Australia’s cautious approach to the matter. As tensions rise in Gaza, many are left wondering whether this latest development will alter the course of global diplomatic efforts in the region.