In a growing diplomatic rift, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of "betraying Israel" and abandoning the Jewish community in Australia. During a recent statement, Netanyahu claimed that Albanese would be remembered as "a weak politician," reflecting mounting tensions between the two nations.
The backdrop of this dispute includes Australia’s recent move to deny a visa to far-right Israeli politician Simcha Rothman, who was slated to visit Australia for events organized by the Australian Jewish Association. Australia's Home Affairs Minister emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards those wishing to propagate hate, asserting, "If you are coming to Australia to spread a message of hate and division, we don't want you here." In response to this decision, Israel canceled the visas of Australian officials seeking entry to the Palestinian Authority, further inflaming diplomatic relations.
Netanyahu's remarks came after Australia's announcement in August to formally recognize a Palestinian state, a move that drew parallels with similar actions taken by the United Kingdom, France, and Canada. Albanese criticized Netanyahu at the time for being "in denial" regarding the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Israel's opposition leader, Yair Lapid, criticized Netanyahu’s approach, suggesting that it inadvertently strengthened Albanese politically. Lapid remarked on social media, "The thing that most strengthens a leader in the democratic world today is a confrontation with Netanyahu, the most politically toxic leader in the Western world."
These developments occur against a backdrop of rising antisemitism in Australia, amidst reports of violent incidents targeting Jewish communities. With 147 UN member states recognizing Palestine, the diplomatic tensions indicate a significant realignment in Australia's foreign policy towards the Israel-Palestine issue.
