Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of “betraying” the Jewish community in Australia amid rising diplomatic tensions. This escalation followed Australia’s recent decision to ban far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition from entering the country and to recognize Palestine as a state, aligning with similar moves from the UK, France, and Canada.
Netanyahu criticized Albanese as a “weak politician,” while Australian representative Tony Burke countered that strength should not be defined by violence or suffering. Opposition leader Yair Lapid also remarked on Netanyahu’s reaction, calling it an unnecessary “gift” to Albanese.
These tensions heightened following the cancellation of an Australian visa for Israeli politician Simcha Rossman, who was set to speak at an event for the Australian Jewish Association. Burke stated that Australia would not tolerate individuals spreading hatred.
In response to protests against rising anti-Semitism in Australia, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sarr announced that the Israeli Embassy would closely review Australian visa applications. These developments occurred against a backdrop of increasing anti-Semitic incidents in Australia and a contentious narrative surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Overall, the diplomatic rift reflects deeper issues related to the Israeli-Hamas war and Australia’s stance on Palestinian recognition, with both sides exchanging sharp criticisms.
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