**Australia's PM Critiques Netanyahu's Denial Amid Gaza Conflict Escalation**

Australia's government reflects a growing frustration over Israel's handling of the conflict, calling for humanitarian aid and a peaceful resolution.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has raised significant concerns regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's perception of the ongoing war in Gaza, labeling him as "in denial" about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. This statement comes as Albanese announced that Australia will recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly this September, following similar actions taken by the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

In a recent interview, Albanese conveyed that the frustrations felt by many Australians regarding the Israeli administration's interventions heavily influenced this decision. Public sentiment, according to Albanese, is urging for an end to the violence and loss of innocent lives. In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, where reports indicate starvation and malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza, Albanese expressed that it is "completely unacceptable."

Netanyahu's government, facing mounting international scrutiny, has defended its actions by stating that recognizing a Palestinian state would reward terrorism, dismissing Australia’s decision as “shameful.” Furthermore, Netanyahu has urged solidarity among nations, arguing that those under threat would respond similarly to Israel.

Reports from the Hamas-run health ministry indicated that the dire situation in Gaza has led to the death of up to 222 individuals, including over 100 children, due to starvation, an assertion Israel firmly contradicts. Israeli officials maintain that any claims of starvation derive from failures of international organizations to properly distribute aid.

In discussions with Netanyahu, Albanese mentioned the high toll on lives around key aid distribution points, highlighting the loss of lives in queues for basic sustenance and water.

The announcement from Australia regarding Palestinian recognition has led to varied reactions domestically; the Executive Council of Australian Jewry referred to it as a “betrayal,” while some Palestinian advocates feel more assertive measures need to be taken. Opposition leader Sussan Ley criticized the move as "disrespectful" to Australia’s ally, the United States.

The growing public outcry in Australia was exemplified by a pro-Palestinian protest that attracted approximately 90,000 participants, advocating for a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, the broader international community continues to look at the Israel-Palestine situation with mounting concern, intensifying calls for humanitarian aid and diplomatic solutions as the toll of the conflict reaches unprecedented figures.