Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of captives, while calling for humanitarian aid to reach Palestinians in desperate need.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, Albanese reiterated Canberra’s backing for a two-state solution.

“For decades, leaders have come to this podium in search of new words and new ways to call the world to a two-state solution,” he said.

The Australian prime minister also highlighted his country’s recognition of the State of Palestine earlier this week, saying the move was in line with the principles of the UN Charter. He cited the Charter’s determination “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom, and for these ends, to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours.”

Mojtaba Darabi - A.Akbari