FOREIGN Minister Kevin Rudd wants Australia to abstain in a potentially explosive United Nations vote to recognise a Palestinian state, pitting him against Julia Gillard's declared strong support for Israel.

Mr Rudd has written to the Prime Minister recommending Australia vote neither for nor against a resolution set to dominate a UN summit in New York next month.

Julia Gillard. Credit:Sebastian Costanzo

If followed, the letter - sent before Mr Rudd had heart surgery on August 1 - would result in Australia trying to duck the controversy over efforts to allow Palestine into the UN as a sovereign state.

Mr Rudd's suggested tactic is being interpreted as an attempt to avoid antagonising Arab nations and to protect Australia's campaign for a temporary seat on the Security Council, due to go to a vote next year.