Wong stated that the Australian government will resume using the term "Occupied Palestinian Territories," including East Jerusalem, in all its official documents. This decision accompanies the reaffirmation that Israeli settlements are considered illegal under international law.

Wong emphasized the government's stance against settlements by highlighting their illegality under international law and their role as a significant impediment to achieving peace. She indicated that the government's move to use the term "Occupied Palestinian Territories" clarifies that the regions encompassing the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza were occupied by Israel following the 1967 war, and the occupation persists. Wong also underscored the government's commitment to pursuing a two-state solution where Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist.

In the past, Wong reversed a decision made by the preceding government in 2018, which recognized West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. She criticized the 2018 move, stating that it had undermined peace efforts and diverged from the stance of the majority of the international community.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing its appreciation for Australia's stance on the terminology and settlements issue. The ministry called upon the Australian government to implement decisions made during the ruling Labor Party conference, which urged the government to promptly recognize the State of Palestine.

The statement expressed hope that this recognition would align with international law and legitimacy, reflecting not only the Labor Party's position but also the sentiment of the Australian people who support the just rights of the Palestinian population. The recognition would encompass the establishment of a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. (ILKHA)