Part 7/11:
Albanese's plan to recognize Palestine in September has drawn particular criticism from security and defense voices. Joel Bernie, Executive Manager at the Australia Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC), expressed that such symbolic gestures are ultimately ineffective in changing the material realities faced by Palestinians. He pointed out that no Palestinian lives are affected simply by diplomatic announcements, and that these actions may undermine Australia's strategic alliances, especially with the United States.