Diplomatic Tensions Escalate Between Australia and Israel Over Palestinian Recognition

Australia has responded to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's criticisms of the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Netanyahu labeled Albanese 'weak', prompting Australian Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke to counter that Netanyahu equates strength with violence, according to Al Jazeera.

Burke's rebuke followed Netanyahu's harsh social media comments, where he accused the Australian leader of betraying Israel and Australia's Jewish community. Speaking on ABC's Radio National Breakfast, Burke suggested that Israel's response is part of a broader backlash against nations recognizing Palestinian statehood.

Relations between Australia and Israel, once close allies, have deteriorated over the Gaza conflict and Australia's recent Palestinian recognition. Tensions further escalated when Australia canceled a visa for an Israeli politician, leading Israel to revoke visas for Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority, amidst global criticism of its Gaza actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)