As global attention turns to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) has criticized moves by several nations to formally recognize a Palestinian state.

Justin Amler, a policy analyst with AIJAC, compared such recognition to “a mirage in the desert,” arguing that it represents “a true triumph of fantasy over reality.”

“Recognising ‘Palestine’ as a state now is like recognising a mirage in the desert as a source of water,” Amler said in a video message released by the organization.

France, Canada, Britain, and Australia are among the countries reportedly preparing to support recognition efforts. Proponents argue it would advance Palestinian self-determination, while critics insist it undermines peace negotiations and rewards ongoing instability in the region.

The debate is expected to be one of the more contentious topics at the UN gathering, reflecting the deep divisions over how best to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.