NEW YORK: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cited an Australian aid worker killed in Gaza, along with journalists and “tens of thousands of civilians,” in a speech at the United Nations where dozens of leaders met on Monday to promote Palestinian statehood. Australia, Britain and Canada on Sunday recognized Palestine, joining more than three-quarters of the 193 UN members who already recognize a Palestinian state, a move opposed by the United States and Israel.

The announcements marked a significant shift in foreign policy, with several other European nations and U.S. allies set to follow suit in the coming days.

Recognition of Palestine from Canada and Australia comes in coordination with the UK before UN General Assembly meeting.