Diplomatic tensions have escalated between Israel and Australia, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of “betraying Israel” and “abandoning” the Australian Jewish community. This exchange follows Australia’s recent decision to recognize a Palestinian state, joining the UK, France, and Canada in such a stance. Netanyahu, in a statement on Tuesday, characterized Albanese as a “weak politician,” a response to Australia’s barring of far-right politician Simcha Rothman from entering the country, intended to address concerns over hate speech and division.
Australian Immigration Minister Tony Burke remarked that Netanyahu’s comments seemed to reflect frustration with Australia’s policy changes. He asserted that strength should not be equated with violence or oppression. Meanwhile, Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Netanyahu’s comments, suggesting they ultimately benefitted Albanese politically.
The cancellation of Rothman’s visa occurred shortly before his scheduled visit, where he was expected to speak at events held by the Australian Jewish Association (AJA). Burke has indicated that Australia takes a firm stance against individuals promoting messages of hate. Previously, a visa was also denied to former Israeli Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked.
In response to the visa revocation, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stated that applications for entry by Australians to Israel would be examined closely. He claimed that the Australian government was fueling antisemitism in light of increasing incidents against Jewish individuals and institutions in Australia.
Following these developments, AJA confirmed that Rothman would still participate in their event virtually, stating that the Jewish community would not be deterred by Australian officials. The broader context of these tensions relates to Australia’s recent support of Palestinian statehood, further igniting debates surrounding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ylkpp77qxo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss