The Albanese Government has issued its starkest warning yet to Australians about travelling to Palestine, just days after formally recognising the State of Palestine alongside Canada and the United Kingdom.
On 22 September, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) published a new Smartraveller advisory page devoted to Palestine. It urges Australians:
“Do not travel to Gaza and the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem) due to the volatile security situation, ongoing military activity, armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism. We advise reconsider your need to travel to Jerusalem.”
The page details the risks of terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest and violent clashes. It notes that foreign nationals have been caught in crossfire and subject to arbitrary detention. Australians are warned that consular services are “very limited”, with DFAT having suspended its operations in Ramallah and withdrawn staff. Citizens are told instead to seek support via Australian missions in Jordan or Israel.
“Under Palestinian law, which is enforced in the West Bank (excluding Jerusalem), authorities may enforce the death penalty for treason, helping an enemy and deliberate killing.”
Other warnings highlight the enforcement of Islamic law in Gaza, the Palestinian Authority’s use of the death penalty, strict punishable local laws restricting same-sex relationships, and the need for conservative dress and behaviour in public.
“Islamic (Sharia) law applies in Gaza. The application of laws and legal processes can’t be guaranteed. Drinking alcohol and same sex acts were prohibited. Unmarried or same sex couples are not allowed to live together in Palestine (excluding Jerusalem) and aren’t allowed to share hotel accommodation either.”
Travellers are cautioned that violence can flare without warning, with attacks on buses, cafes and public spaces.
The travel advisory stands in sharp contrast to the government’s diplomatic messaging this week. In New York, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia had joined other allies in recognising Palestine to signal support for peace.
“Today, I’m pleased … to announce … the Commonwealth of Australia recognises the state of Palestine,” Mr Albanese told reporters.
“We recognise the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine of a state of their own. Australians want the killings to stop … a future of greater hope, true security and real peace.”
Foreign Minister Penny Wong added that recognition would now be reflected across government: “The practical steps of recognition will begin now … official documents, public facing websites, government systems, policies and operating procedures will refer to the State of Palestine.”
“Further steps will follow, such as establishing embassies … to follow progress on reforms committed to by the Palestinian Authority.”
The Albanese Government has stressed its recognition is conditional on the Palestinian Authority excluding Hamas and committing to democratic and governance reforms. Canberra is also coordinating with London and Ottawa to ensure consistent messaging on both recognition and expectations of the Palestinian leadership.
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