A growing number of countries are pledging to recognize a Palestinian state, with more than 145 nations now joining the call for international recognition.

Australia will recognize a Palestinian state, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Monday, joining the leaders of France, Britain and Canada in signaling they would do so. His remarks followed weeks of urging from within his Cabinet and from many in Australia to recognize a Palestinian state and amid growing criticism from officials in his government over suffering in Gaza,

The decision comes amid escalating concern about the dire situation in Gaza as Israel wages war against the Hamas militant group.

Local health officials in Gaza say Israeli forces have killed at least 55 people overnight, including a well-known journalist who Israel said was a militant and people who witnesses say were seeking humanitarian aid.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reveals details of phone conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.