Israel and Australia are facing a diplomatic dispute after Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese decided to officially recognise a Palestinian state. This move angered Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said Australia had betrayed Israel and abandoned the Jewish community.
The situation escalated when Australia cancelled the visa of Israeli far-right politician Simcha Rothman, who had been invited to speak at Jewish community events. In response, Israel revoked visas for Australian officials working with the Palestinian Authority and said it would carefully review future visa applications.
Australia’s Immigration Minister Tony Burke defended the visa cancellation, saying the government would not allow people who spread hate or division to enter the country. Albanese responded by saying he respects other world leaders and does not take Netanyahu’s criticism personally.
Israel’s opposition leader, Yair Lapid, also criticised Netanyahu, suggesting his comments only helped Albanese politically. Meanwhile, Israel’s foreign ministry accused Australia of encouraging antisemitism at a time when attacks against Jewish people have been increasing.
The Australian Jewish Association confirmed that Rothman would still speak at their event online, despite the visa issues.
Australia’s recognition of Palestine comes amid rising international concern over the war in Gaza. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 62,000 people have died since Israel began its military campaign after the October 7 Hamas attack, which killed around 1,200 Israelis and took hundreds hostage.
Source: Viewers Corner News