The Australian Senate made a renewed attempt on Tuesday to officially acknowledge the Palestinian state but faced opposition from the Labor-led government, resulting in the motion’s failure.

Senator Mehreen Faruqi from the Australian Greens party introduced the motion in the Senate, marking the second such effort in recent months following global precedents set by 145 nations recognizing Palestine’s independence.

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“I moved a straightforward motion today advocating for a basic, essential act of justice—recognizing Palestine. I am grateful that my colleague Senator Payman demonstrated courage and principle by supporting the motion and crossing party lines. The remainder of the Labor Party failed this fundamental moral test,” Faruqi commented.

Senator Fatima Payman of Western Australia notably crossed the floor to support the motion, marking the first time since 1986 that a Labor politician defied party lines while the party held government power. Her action could potentially lead to disciplinary measures within the party ranks.

In defense of her decision, Payman emphasized her commitment to representing her constituents and upholding her late father’s values. She expressed pride in her stance, stating it reflected principles of humanity.

Greens leader Adam Bandt criticized the government’s stance as “shameful” and accused Labor of cowardice for opposing Palestinian recognition, contrasting it with the majority of countries globally that have already recognized Palestine.

The motion’s defeat in the Senate follows a similar outcome in the House of Representatives last month, where a Greens-led attempt to recognize Palestine was rejected with five votes in favor and 80 against.