Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Australian PM Anthony Albanese of betrayal after Australia recognized a Palestinian state and cancelled the entry visa of a far-right Israeli politician.
Netanyahu Slams Australian PM as Relations Sour Over Palestinian State Recognition
Netanyahu Slams Australian PM as Relations Sour Over Palestinian State Recognition
Tensions rise between Israel and Australia following visa cancellation and accusations of betrayal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, accusing him of betraying Israel and abandoning Australia's Jewish community. This accusation comes amidst a backdrop of escalating diplomatic tensions following Australia's announcement that it would recognize a Palestinian state in September.
In comments made on Tuesday, Netanyahu stated that history would remember Albanese as a "weak politician." This sentiment arises after Australia revoked the visa of Simcha Rothman, a far-right member of Netanyahu's coalition, before his planned visit to speak at events organized by the Australian Jewish Association. Australia's Home Affairs Minister spoke on the matter, emphasizing the government's commitment to barring individuals who promote division and hate from entering the country.
In a retaliatory move, Israel revoked the visas of Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority, citing this as a response to the recognition of a Palestinian state, which has been a point of contention for Israel. Netanyahu's comments have drawn criticism even from within Israel, with opposition leader Yair Lapid labeling the remarks a "gift" to Albanese, suggesting that confrontations with Netanyahu bolster leaders in democratic nations.
Recent months have seen a rise in antisemitic incidents in Australia, coinciding with heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Minister Gideon Sa'ar also responded to Australia's policy changes, questioning their commitment to combating antisemitism domestically. Opposition leader comments imply that Netanyahu's aggressive rhetoric could harm Israel's international relations and provide leverage to Albanese.
Australia's support for Palestinian statehood mirrors similar actions by the UK, France, and Canada, all of which have drawn Netanyahu's ire. The state of Palestine currently enjoys recognition from 147 of the UN's 193 member states, underscoring the contentious nature of the debate surrounding Middle Eastern politics.
