Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s scathing criticism of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the social media platform X has further strained relations between the two countries, raising tensions over issues such as visa revocations and the recognition of a Palestinian state.
Netanyahu Accuses the Australian PM of Betraying Israel
In a brief statement posted to X on Tuesday, August 19, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, calling him a “weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australian Jews.” This remark marked a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations.
Israel‑Australia Dispute Over Visas and Palestinian Recognition
The statement occurs amid a growing dispute between Israel and Australia. On Monday, Israel revoked visas for Australian diplomats accredited to Palestinian authorities in retaliation for Australia’s announcement that it would recognise the existence of a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. Australia, in turn, cancelled the visa of Simon Rothmann, a right‑wing Israeli politician and member of Benjamin Netanyahu’s National Religious Party, a decision made just hours before Rothmann’s planned visit to Australia for a speech at an event hosted by the Australian Jewish Association.
Opposition Leader Jair Lapid Criticises Netanyahu’s Attack
Israeli opposition leader Jair Lapid responded sharply to Netanyahu’s remarks, arguing that the confrontation strengthens the standing of democratic leaders worldwide. Lapid branded Netanyahu “the most toxic leader in the Western world” and described the attack on the Australian PM as effectively a gift to the head of the Australian government.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong Condemns Israel’s Visa Revocations
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned Israel’s decision to revoke visas for Australian diplomats, calling it an “unjustified reaction.” She stressed that, at a time when dialogue and diplomacy are more needed than ever, Netanyahu’s government is isolating Israel and undermining international efforts toward peace and a two‑state solution.
Kaynaklar: Gazeta, IAR, The Times of Israel, X
